Nikola Topic

[SpursBills]

I think a lot of people on the board are coming around to the idea of drafting Topic. As a Topic truther, I'm going to present a few arguments why Topic should not only be the Spurs' first draft pick, but that they should seriously consider trading assets for him to move up if they lose out on the lottery.

Let me preface this by saying a lot of this analysis is grounded in stats, so I'm looking towards posters with significantly more experience watching international prospects (looking at you, Bruno (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=2449)) to judge the validity of some of these arguments.

1. Topic is a big creator. I'm surprised not more has been made of this fact. This is probably the most valuable archetype in all of basketball, even more so than the two way wing. If you're starting a team from scratch would you rather Haliburton or Jayson Tatum? It's probably close to a wash for many people even though Tatum is a far better player. The big creator is a force multiplier that improves all the other guys on your team. For another example of this, look no further than what has happened to the clippers before and after getting Harden.

2. Big creators paired with elite defensive bigs tend to break the league. Lebron hand picked AD as his running mate when he left for LA for this reason. One is an offensive force multiplier, the other is a defensive force multiplier. Add some cheap 3 and D wings and you've got a reasonably priced contender. It's a more efficient model of team building with current salary cap constraints than building around any other combination. Imagine if you paired Haliburton with AD. OKC is an elite team and will be for the next 10 years because of SGA-Chet. Luka is probably not leaving Dallas anymore if Lively continues his current development. Now the spurs have the single best elite defensive big of the last 30 years. The potential here is off the charts.

3. Topic's statistical upside comps are elite. His archetype is a big creator with allegedly questionable athleticism, and probably top two upside comps are Luka and SGA. Topic is smaller, shorter, and puts up similar numbers to Luka in a worse league (ABA vs ACB). He's definitely not Luka offensively. SGA is an interesting comp that's commonly been made as a lengthy crafty guy who generates a ton of rim pressure. He's far inferior to SGA defensively, but he's putting up better numbers at a younger age than SGA did as a freshman at Kentucky with clearly better passing instincts. Was SGA facing better defenders at Kentucky than Topic is facing in ABA facing pros? I don't know, but I think it's a reasonable bet that the level of competition Topic is facing is at least comparable, if not superior. If your upside comp offensively is SGA with better passing, that is an incredible prospect.

4. Topic's downside comps are still somewhat useful players. This is a pretty spicy take, but I think one of his downside comps is Cade Cunningham.
They are both approximately 6'6" with 7 foot wingspan high usage creators who were looked at as primary initiators on their respective teams.
Comparing Topic's age 18 season to Cade's age 19 season at OK State:

Topic: 62% TS, 33.4% AST%, 16% TO%, 121 offensive rating, 110 defensive rating on 25% usage
Cade: 57% TS, 20.4% AST%, 18.7% TO%, 106 offensive rating, 97 defensive rating on 29% usage

Cade was a far better 3 point shooter and rebounder, but Topic clearly generates more efficient offense as a primary creator. Cade despite shooting 40% on 6 3 PA attempts still comes in with a lower TS than Topic. Cade was viewed as a can't miss #1 overall draft pick in his draft class (who still remembers Fade for Cade?), and yet projected as an inferior creator. Even now, people are entertaining trading multiple first rounders to Detroit to get Cade, isn't it a better bet to just go ahead and trade those first rounders for Topic on the off chance that he hits his upside comp?

Another downside comp for Topic is Josh Giddey. Again, both are tall creators with excellent passing instincts. Kiddey coming out was looked as a guy who could pass and not much else. He had a semi broken 3 point shot and really couldn't score at all. For reference:

Giggidey (age 18): 51% TS, 36% AST%, 23.7% TO%, 103 offensive rating, 109 defensive rating on 19.5% usage, shooting 29% from 3

Before his recent scandal and subsequent backslide this year, Giddey was averaging 16.6/6 assists on 48/33/73% shooting as a second year player and was genuinely looked at as a promising young player with questionable fit next to SGA. Giddey is 2 inches taller than Topic, but he is a reasonable comp to what happens if Topic's rim pressure does not translate at all (unlikely).

The third downside comp for Topic is Jeremy Lin. Lin was going up against Ivy league competition as a senior in college, but from a stats standpoint had an outlier 2 point percentage of around 60% similar to Topic (65%). Lin was shorter, had less length, and was about 3 years older than Topic putting up similar numbers in the Ivy league.

Lin (age 21): 62% TS, 31% AST%, 19% TO% on 26% usage

Lin went undrafted and ended up with a middling career marred by injury but it's inarguable that he far outperformed his expectations. Ivy league comp is trash and there were legitimate concerns about whether his rim pressure would translate and yet Lin if not for injuries still probably has a decent career in the league. The takeaway here is that an elite 2 point percentage when paired with creation ability is generally a positive predictor for league performance.

What we can gather from all of this is that big guys and guys who can generate rim pressure tend to succeed in the league when they show creation upside. Topic's upside comps are elite and even his downside comps are reasonably useful players.

5. Defense can be improved. I think the two primary criticisms I see about Topic are regarding his jump shot and his defense. He has a positive shooting signal given his FT% has consistently been above 80%. Regarding his defense, this is a significant concern. He dies on screens and gets burned often. However, my counterargument to this is twofold - 1) as a primary creator, we can somewhat forgive his offensive limitations especially with Wembanyama behind him and 2) young guys often get better on defense. As a tall guy with length, he has far more potential to at least reach the level of a middling defender compared to smaller guys. How many times have we also seen poor defenders turn into acceptable ones in the past? Devin booker, Steph curry, Jamal Murray to name a few. Hell, Trae Young used to be the poster boy for unacceptably bad defense and this year has has turned in a league average defensive EPM. In my opinion this is not a good reason to knock a young prospect, especially one who is responsible for so much on the offensive end.

6. He fits team needs. Based on the first 30 games, what we've seen is that Sochan is being played out of position, Wemby doesn't get easy shots, and Vassell forces things too much because he's asked to create difficult offense on his own. Even if you don't think the rim pressure translates, the shooting ever comes, and the defense still sucks, at the very least you are getting a capable big point guard with vision who can pass. That solves most of your roster problems instantly, even though it might take 2-3 years for him to get used to the NBA game. If his rim pressure translates even somewhat, it addresses the Spurs' most glaring roster need

7. He fits the spurs culturally. This is the worst reason by far to take him, but it's still not nothing. Topic is the son of a professional basketball player who played on a yugoslavian national team and his demeanor on court is what you want out of your point guard. He doesn't whine to the refs and he keeps playing when things are down. That's generally a positive predictor for a guy who can be coached and developed by the spurs staff.

So ultimately, the question is where he goes in the draft. I think it would be an epic mistake if the spurs ended taking anybody in front of this guy with their own first rounder. The better question is if the spurs end up something like 4th, whether they should be trading assets to move up to 1st or 2nd to take him. Me personally, I would offer up their 2024 first, Toronto's pick, and possibly either Atlanta's 2025 unprotected or their own 2025 unprotected to move up for him. #1 overall picks are usually not for sale but I think in this particular draft it might be because of its perceived weakness. The spurs have a chance to draft the second part of their long term duo and set up their franchise for the next 15 years. I think if you can get it done, you do everything you can to get him this draft.

Always happy to read counterarguments esp from more experienced posters.

Thanks for reading, merry christmas!

[exstatic]

I missed on Sengün, the second elite 18 YO Euro after Doncic. Not missing on this kid. He’s the goods, and I’d guess our tanking target.

[baseline bum]

I don't think Topic even if he is a great PG fixes the team's problems, as they desperately need competent defenders also, with Wemby and Vassell the only ones on the roster. I wouldn't be opposed to drafting a SF instead if they think they can land say Quickley in the summer to play point. If they draft Topic or another guard I really hope they made a hard push for Anunoby in the summer, because neither Keldon Johnson nor Jeremy Sochan are starting material. Only high end pick I really don't want is Sarr, as I don't see the fit at all and he isn't putting up particularly impressive numbers.

[baseline bum]

Spurs definitely can't afford another fuck up like Primo or Sochan again

[SpursBills]

I don't think Topic even if he is a great PG fixes the team's problems, as they desperately need competent defenders also, with Wemby and Vassell the only ones on the roster. I wouldn't be opposed to drafting a SF instead if they think they can land say Quickley in the summer to play point. If they draft Topic or another guard I really hope they made a hard push for Anunoby in the summer, because neither Keldon Johnson nor Jeremy Sochan are starting material. Only high end pick I really don't want is Sarr, as I don't see the fit at all and he isn't putting up particularly impressive numbers.

I absolutely agree that drafting Topic doesn't solve all of the team's problems and absolutely none of the team's defensive issues. However, he does solve many if not most of the offensive problems plaguing this team if he hits.

From a team-building standpoint, I think having an elite creator paired with a middling wing trumps a middling creator with an elite wing. Additionally, while I think Topic has a chance to become an elite creator, I don't see anyone in this draft with the potential to be an elite wing.

[mo7888]

I absolutely agree that drafting Topic doesn't solve all of the team's problems and absolutely none of the team's defensive issues. However, he does solve many if not most of the offensive problems plaguing this team if he hits.

From a team-building standpoint, I think having an elite creator paired with a middling wing trumps a middling creator with an elite wing. Additionally, while I think Topic has a chance to become an elite creator, I don't see anyone in this draft with the potential to be an elite wing.

There's a limit to what I'd pay to move up re: future picks, but I am getting more comfortable with Topic being the guy. I'm not concerned about the Defensive issues in conjunction with drafting him. I see it as Wemby and Topic in a SL and the other 3 guys may not even be on the roster right now. Devin might remain and then again he may be moved in the right deal.

[SpursBills]

Additionally, passable 3 and D wings are cheap relatively speaking - look at the Lakers with Vanderbilt and Reddish, nuggets with KCP and bruce brown, Wolves with McDaniels, nets with Dorian Finney-Smith, etc. As long as your primary offensive guy and primary defensive guy are in place, you can fill in everything else. But your two cornerstones have to be in place first and that should be your first priority.

Long term, the salary cap and second apron are only going to allow for 2 super max slots, so the most efficient use of those salary slots is on two guys that are force multipliers. It makes sense for one to be on the offensive end, and one to be on the defensive end.

[onechance87]

just want someone to partner up with wemby and click and for them to
grow together and dominate the future

[Uriel]

Incredible post OP. Hope to see more of you in this forum.

If things go right, a Wembanyama-Topic pairing could indeed dominate the league for the next decade.

[SPURt]

Usually when I see a sub 100 poster release a novel on here, it’s a terrible read defending a terrible take. This was neither of those, thank you OP. I am not familiar enough with his game to contribute to this thread, but I’m certainly gonna start looking at draft prospects now, since we are looking at a possibly historically awful Spurs team the rest of the way.

For what it’s worth, tankathon have the Spurs taking Topic at #7 with the Toronto pick

[scott]

I don't think Topic even if he is a great PG fixes the team's problems, as they desperately need competent defenders also, with Wemby and Vassell the only ones on the roster. I wouldn't be opposed to drafting a SF instead if they think they can land say Quickley in the summer to play point. If they draft Topic or another guard I really hope they made a hard push for Anunoby in the summer, because neither Keldon Johnson nor Jeremy Sochan are starting material. Only high end pick I really don't want is Sarr, as I don't see the fit at all and he isn't putting up particularly impressive numbers.

Gonna take exception to the notion that Vassell is a competent defender. He was drafted as such, but hasn't shown much since his rookie season IMO.

[LeBowen]

Great post, more or less spot on.

Looking at the other scrub teams, Wizards and Utah are the only teams that could go for Topic.
Cade is the only thing Pistons have going for them, Blazers just got Scoot, Hornets obviously have Lamelo, Grizzlies won't stay near the bottom for long and they have Ja and others are way too good to be ahead of the Spurs in the lottery unless they get extremely lucky. Toronto is a danger if they blow it up.

Can't see the Wizards going for Euro playmaker with questionable shooting and bad defense, leaving Jazz as the only competition, imo.
Spurs have more than enough assets to get anyone they desire, so if they really think Topic is the guy, then trading up won't be an issue.
But as long as we don't get a worse pick than Utah, we should be good to go.


I haven't seen any full games, but from the highlights I watched he seems to be the perfect fit next to Wemby, as already pointed out.
If he's the real deal and actually becomes the playmaker that was promised, then we'd just need a couple of 3-D wings to get out of the damn lottery already.

[CorrectCrusader]

I am not worried about point guard defense at all. Victor is going to be the all time greatest defender ever simply from his wingspan and height. Get him an offensive juggernaut of a point guard and surround those two with above average roleplayer wings and we win championships.

[onechance87]

I am not worried about point guard defense at all. Victor is going to be the all time greatest defender ever simply from his wingspan and height. Get him an offensive juggernaut of a point guard and surround those two with above average roleplayer wings and we win championships.

damnit....what offensive juggernaut can we get realistically tho

[TD 21]

He reminds me of a bigger version (though I'm skeptical of the reported 7-foot wingspan) of Dragic. If he can approximate his career and Wembanyama can come close to living up to the hype, that's definitely a combination with "break the league" potential.


I don't think Topic even if he is a great PG fixes the team's problems, as they desperately need competent defenders also, with Wemby and Vassell the only ones on the roster. I wouldn't be opposed to drafting a SF instead if they think they can land say Quickley in the summer to play point. If they draft Topic or another guard I really hope they made a hard push for Anunoby in the summer, because neither Keldon Johnson nor Jeremy Sochan are starting material. Only high end pick I really don't want is Sarr, as I don't see the fit at all and he isn't putting up particularly impressive numbers.

They should do both: Select Topic if available or pursuing him by adding quality draft equity, as well as pursue Quickley (multiple reports have come out recently about the Knicks willingness to consider an in season trade).

The latter buys the former time to start/close if needed and they're ideal theoretical fits, as the former has primary creator potential and the size to defend off ball wings, while the latter can be the point of attack guard defender and secondary creator/floor spacer.


Looking at the other scrub teams, Wizards and Utah are the only teams that could go for Topic.

Bulls and Craptors also loom as possibilities.

[baseline bum]

Gonna take exception to the notion that Vassell is a competent defender. He was drafted as such, but hasn't shown much since his rookie season IMO.

Vassell's defensive field goal percentage allowed is pretty solid, top 40% of so of the league. Might not be a great defender but at least he's not a guy who seems to really hurt the team defensively the way Sochan and especially Johnson and Collins do. Last I checked Vassell's DFG numbers are pretty close to Anunoby's for example.

[Tyronn Lue]

Pop would put him at center.

[BatManu20]

Good stuff OP.

I agree Topic is likely the target right now with our First Pick, but I think we'd need the 1st or 2nd overall pick to land him, as he likely ends up going top-2 in this weak draft class, and that seems unlikely at this point. That's why I've been doing more due diligence on Collier and Cunningham, simply because I think the Spurs are actually going to end up falling in the lottery for the first time in franchise history, as we're still the only team to never do so, and it just feels like we're overdue. Topic will be long gone imo, though I'd love to be wrong.

On a side note: it's annoying that all 3 PG's currently projected to go in the Lottery (Topic, Collier, and Dillingham) are all poor defenders. This team desperately needs guys who can play Defense at a high level, regardless of position. We'll need to fill out the rest of the roster with capable defenders. And, as OP mentioned, Defense can always be improved, so hopefully whichever one we draft does so, although Topic and Dillingham will likely never be great defenders due to lack of physical abilities.

[SpursBills]

Good stuff OP.

I agree Topic is likely the target right now with our First Pick, but I think we'd need the 1st or 2nd overall pick to land him, as he likely ends up going top-2 in this weak draft class, and that seems unlikely at this point. That's why I've been doing more due diligence on Collier and Cunningham, simply because I think the Spurs are actually going to end up falling in the lottery for the first time in franchise history, as we're still the only team to never do so, and it just feels like we're overdue. Topic will be long gone imo, though I'd love to be wrong.

On a side note: it's annoying that all 3 PG's currently projected to go in the Lottery (Topic, Collier, and Dillingham) are all poor defenders. This team desperately needs guys who can play Defense at a high level, regardless of position. We'll need to fill out the rest of the roster with capable defenders. And, as OP mentioned, Defense can always be improved, so hopefully whichever one we draft does so, although Topic and Dillingham will likely never be great defenders due to lack of physical abilities.

This is ultimately the most interesting question. I am also counting on the Spurs to finish around 4-5 this year, and Topic is probably going first overall. Knowing that this may be the last chance for the spurs to get a truly blue chip prospect in the draft, are you willing to trade up to get him and if so what are you willing to trade to get him? My personal offer if necessary is 2024 pick, Raptors pick, and Hawks unprotected 2025 pick which I think is more than a fair price to move from 4 to 1 when compared to what the Mavs offered to move up from 5 to 3.

[TD 21]

^ Let me save you the time: Cunningham isn't getting traded anytime soon and Collier and Dillingham are "too black" for the Spurs narrow minded, precious "culture".

Based on current projections, with their natural pick I'm confident they'll focus on: Topic, Risacher, Buzelis, Williams.

[duncan2150]

This is ultimately the most interesting question. I am also counting on the Spurs to finish around 4-5 this year, and Topic is probably going first overall. Knowing that this may be the last chance for the spurs to get a truly blue chip prospect in the draft, are you willing to trade up to get him and if so what are you willing to trade to get him? My personal offer if necessary is 2024 pick, Raptors pick, and Hawks unprotected 2025 pick which I think is more than a fair price to move from 4 to 1 when compared to what the Mavs offered to move up from 5 to 3.

good post overall spursbills

the only thing i don’t agree is that topic will be the first pick

im pretty sure the top 5 of this draft can change every month going to the draft.

[mo7888]

I don't necessarily think Topic is going #1. Charlotte, Portland, Washington, San Antonio, and Detroit are competing for that pick. Us and Washington are the main threats to take Topic. I don't see any of the other 3 taking him unless they are ready to give up on their young guys at the position.

[baseline bum]

^ Let me save you the time: Cunningham isn't getting traded anytime soon and Collier and Dillingham are "too black" for the Spurs narrow minded, precious "culture".

Based on current projections, with their natural pick I'm confident they'll focus on: Topic, Risacher, Buzelis, Williams.

They have to pretend they love Cunningham but if Detroit can get pick #1 I could definitely see them draft Topic and shop Cunningham to the Spurs or Wizards if it can get them a pick to land Sarr.

[baseline bum]

I don't necessarily think Topic is going #1. Charlotte, Portland, Washington, San Antonio, and Detroit are competing for that pick. Us and Washington are the main threats to take Topic. I don't see any of the other 3 taking him unless they are ready to give up on their young guys at the position.

Hope so but I think the Pistons would be happy to move on from Cunningham to take another swing in the draft. He's 3 years in and still very unimpressive. If the Spurs want Topic I think they're going to have to hope neither Detroit, Washington, Utah, nor Toronto gets the #1 pick and then if the Spurs don't get #1 trade up with Portland or Charlotte if they get #1.

[SpursBills]

Hope so but I think the Pistons would be happy to move on from Cunningham to take another swing in the draft. He's 3 years in and still very unimpressive. If the Spurs want Topic I think they're going to have to hope neither Detroit, Washington, Utah, nor Toronto gets the #1 pick and then if the Spurs don't get #1 trade up with Portland or Charlotte if they get #1.

This all depends on whether Troy Weaver is a smart GM or a dumb GM. If he's a smart GM, he recognizes that Cade is best either off ball or getting unloaded altogether and ends up drafting Topic and turns the franchise around. If he's a dumb GM, you convince him that the Pistons are terrible not because of Cade, but because they don't have enough defense and spacing on the wings surrounding Cade so you trade him the Spurs and Raptors picks so he can take Risacher and Ja'Kobe Walter who provide exactly that. Obviously I'm hoping he's a dumb GM but I can't be sure yet.

[Biggems]

I am huge on Topic.....unfortunately, I saw a mock that had Detroit drafting him at 1. That would really piss me off if that happened.

I also like Sarr, but I would take Topic over him.

[baseline bum]

This all depends on whether Troy Weaver is a smart GM or a dumb GM. If he's a smart GM, he recognizes that Cade is best either off ball or getting unloaded altogether and ends up drafting Topic and turns the franchise around. If he's a dumb GM, you convince him that the Pistons are terrible not because of Cade, but because they don't have enough defense and spacing on the wings surrounding Cade so you trade him the Spurs and Raptors picks so he can take Risacher and Ja'Kobe Walter who provide exactly that. Obviously I'm hoping he's a dumb GM but I can't be sure yet.

Hope so, but even a dumb GM has to recognize Cade isn't worth a max contract much less the opportunity cost of missing a chance to take another chance in the lottery and you get a cheap contract who should have a great chance to be better than Cade.

[mudd]

Where are the spurs on the dumbass GM scale? I was scared they weren’t going to make vw #1. Be honest did that cross your mind. 2024 mock draft is a crap shoot with our guy.

[SouthernFryd]

Little disappointing to hear so many say "I'm not worried about defense."

Can Defense be taught? Of course. So can basically all the issues the Spurs are having right now...passing, defense, rebounding, spacing, BBIQ, etc... They aren't being taught now, so what makes you think they are going to be taught later?

I love Topic...except for his D. Which looks bad. Tony Parker had bad D. But, Manu, Duncan, Bowen, etc...all had good D and made up for Tony's bad D. Is that the route you think will happen if we take Topic? I don't see anyone on the Spurs coaching Staff focusing on D. We have, literally, NO ONE that plays D, except Wemby. And Wemby's is almost by default. He's so big, just lifting his arms is great D. I don't know why people say Vassell plays good D. I've watching all the games this year, and his D is absolutely horrible. Any great team probably has room for 1 poor defender. The Spurs had Tony. If we get Topic, then we got Vassell and Topic as bad defenders...and that's "if" we get rid of all the other bad defenders.

So...I don't think we should ignore D. Does that mean we don't take TOPIC. I dunno...

[SpursBills]

Little disappointing to hear so many say "I'm not worried about defense."

Can Defense be taught? Of course. So can basically all the issues the Spurs are having right now...passing, defense, rebounding, spacing, BBIQ, etc... They aren't being taught now, so what makes you think they are going to be taught later?

I love Topic...except for his D. Which looks bad. Tony Parker had bad D. But, Manu, Duncan, Bowen, etc...all had good D and made up for Tony's bad D. Is that the route you think will happen if we take Topic? I don't see anyone on the Spurs coaching Staff focusing on D. We have, literally, NO ONE that plays D, except Wemby. And Wemby's is almost by default. He's so big, just lifting his arms is great D. I don't know why people say Vassell plays good D. I've watching all the games this year, and his D is absolutely horrible. Any great team probably has room for 1 poor defender. The Spurs had Tony. If we get Topic, then we got Vassell and Topic as bad defenders...and that's "if" we get rid of all the other bad defenders.

So...I don't think we should ignore D. Does that mean we don't take TOPIC. I dunno...

This is a good thought and defense is a consideration, but right now in the league there is are exactly 2 guys who are both good defensively and elite offensive creators: SGA and LeBron. I think much like you can stomach an offensively limited center who can anchor your defense, you can also stomach a defensively limited point guard who can anchor your entire offense. Obviously in the ideal scenario you have great 2 way players at both positions like SGA/Chet, but if you have a creator who you can potentially build your offense around, you don't pass on that just because of defensive concerns. Would you rather build around Haliburton or Derrick White on this team? From an efficient team building perspective I think that Haliburton is the clear answer.

Additionally, Topic's size makes him much less easily hunted in a playoff setting than a smaller guy like say Trae Young. Finally, as I said, we don't know that Topic is necessarily going to be terrible on defense as many defensive liabilities get better on defense as they get older.

[offset formation]

Yes to more Europeans. Kind of fed up with the ball American kids play.

[SpursBills]

Yes to more Europeans. Kind of fed up with the ball American kids play.

For this reason alone I am heavily biased against guys from G league ignite. Not to say they're undraftable or untalented or anything, but it's clear that they play with absolutely no stakes, team structure, or team defense being played. I just don't think you can make appropriate assessments about how they'll perform as pros when it's essentially more AAU ball. The guys they're playing against might be more talented but the defense being played against them is certainly not comparable to Europe or even high level D1 NCAA.

[TD 21]

They have to pretend they love Cunningham but if Detroit can get pick #1 I could definitely see them draft Topic and shop Cunningham to the Spurs or Wizards if it can get them a pick to land Sarr.

It's not as simple as that. They're known for having "too many cooks in the kitchen" (Gores supposedly wanted Williams, Tellem wanted Collins and Weaver wanted Ollie).

If Doncic was a tough sell as a #1 pick, Topic will likely be even more so.

[R. DeMurre]

If Doncic was a tough sell as a #1 pick, Topic will likely be even more so.


I think Doncic being a tough sell at #1 and then flourishing will probably be the reason/cautionary tale for why Topic won't be viewed as a tough sell. That, plus Sengun putting up big numbers as a teen in Europe, and those numbers translating.

[BackHome]

Detroit is not going to take another guard in this draft as there fan base will destroy them if they do. If they get number 1 I think they take the highest potential which would be Sarr and the second would be Buzelis

[exstatic]

I think Doncic being a tough sell at #1 and then flourishing will probably be the reason/cautionary tale for why Topic won't be viewed as a tough sell. That, plus Sengun putting up big numbers as a teen in Europe, and those numbers translating.

This. Pretty much any player who dominates grown men at 18 in a decent European league will be viewed differently than they would have, pre Doncic.

[manufan10]

1739617651628937704

[duncan2150]

1739617651628937704

huge News, that’s where Topic will secure a top 3 pick if he plays Well. And if he dominates the euroLeague then he could be the first pick imo.

about Red Star they’re not really good this Year With 6 w and 10 L in euroLeague, they have teodosic at the point who just had a 27 pts 14 assists game in EL, they also have old spurs fan favourite adam hanga 🤣, Joël bolomboy or mike tobey.

the Level will be totally different for topic in EL, will be really interesting to see How much and How he will play in those games.

[Bruno]

Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.

- Topic has scored 18.6 ppg this season and his scoring breakdown is the following:

10.2 ppg in the paint
0.6 ppg from 2s outside the paint
3.9 ppg from 3's (closer line than in the NBA and with a 28.8 3P%)
3.9 ppg from the free throw line
His offense is coming from the paint and there is a true question mark on whether or it will translate to the NBA. It's a big reason why he isn't higher on mock drafts currently despite all his qualities.
I find that he has a good combination of size, quickness and craftiness to score inside at he NBA level. However, if he can't improve his jumpshot and develop a floater, I fear he will be too predictable to be successful against the more athletic NBA players.

- Topic's dad is a former high level basketball player. I like prospects that are coming from basektball families because it often translates into players that easily coachable and have a high BBIQ.

- It's great that he is leaving Mega to get back to Red Star. It will answer some doubts on his game. Right now, I think Topic is a fine prospect for the Raptors pick (if Spurs get it) but not for the Spurs' one. If he does well in Euroleague/ABA playoffs, he will be a legitimate candidate for Spurs' projected top 6 pick.

[CorrectCrusader]

1739617651628937704

Man he's ugly, lucky he can play ball lmao

[exstatic]

For this reason alone I am heavily biased against guys from G league ignite. Not to say they're undraftable or untalented or anything, but it's clear that they play with absolutely no stakes, team structure, or team defense being played. I just don't think you can make appropriate assessments about how they'll perform as pros when it's essentially more AAU ball. The guys they're playing against might be more talented but the defense being played against them is certainly not comparable to Europe or even high level D1 NCAA.

The Ignite have struggled a lot this year, and someone put forth the theory that the 3rd 2way contract added last summer may have been a tipping point, that with 30 more nba or near nba players added to the mix, their supposed talent edge would dissipate. 90 two ways, plus draft pick assignees would make for better competition going forward, although few teams run a system or play D.

[Mugen]

He'll get ruined just like the rest of them tbh :lol

[TD 21]

I think Doncic being a tough sell at #1 and then flourishing will probably be the reason/cautionary tale for why Topic won't be viewed as a tough sell. That, plus Sengun putting up big numbers as a teen in Europe, and those numbers translating.

Could be and I considered as much, but it's likely team related.

For instance, I don't see the Pistons being that team, but I could see the Bulls, Craptors or Jazz being it.

[CGD]

I’m sorry, there is no way the guy has a 7ft wingspan. Dont think he has TRex arms or anything, but just looks average. Dont doubt his bbiq potential, but let’s hits the breaks— dude is still 18. Think most important thing is being generally smart and coachable so that when he’s 22 he shows that bbiq off.

I do like him, but I think he’s getting overhyped in here, at least, I think it’s still an open question whether Spurs should take him with, say, the second pick.

[R. DeMurre]

Could be and I considered as much, but it's likely team related.

For instance, I don't see the Pistons being that team, but I could see the Bulls, Craptors or Jazz being it.


Yeah, I think you could be right about that... what a sad turn of events for Detroit if they don't take Topic-- because they have Cade-- and then Topic goes on to be the bigger star. In theory at least, two PG/combo guards that are both 6'6" could be incredible. One of the greatest what-ifs in NBA history is the "what if Portland had drafted Jordan to form a Jordan & Drexler duo?"

[duncan2150]

Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.

- Topic has scored 18.6 ppg this season and his scoring breakdown is the following:

10.2 ppg in the paint
0.6 ppg from 2s outside the paint
3.9 ppg from 3's (closer line than in the NBA and with a 28.8 3P%)
3.9 ppg from the free throw line

His offense is coming from the paint and there is a true question mark on whether or it will translate to the NBA. It's a big reason why he isn't higher on mock drafts currently despite all his qualities.
I find that he has a good combination of size, quickness and craftiness to score inside at he NBA level. However, if he can't improve his jumpshot and develop a floater, I fear he will be too predictable to be successful against the more athletic NBA players.

- Topic's dad is a former high level basketball player. I like prospects that are coming from basektball families because it often translates into players that easily coachable and have a high BBIQ.

- It's great that he is leaving Mega to get back to Red Star. It will answer some doubts on his game. Right now, I think Topic is a fine prospect for the Raptors pick (if Spurs get it) but not for the Spurs' one. If he does well in Euroleague/ABA playoffs, he will be a legitimate candidate for Spurs' projected top 6 pick.

i agree about his range imo he is more a 4-8 pick actually than a top three. Imo we ´re more Higher here in ST on topic than the consensus.

interesting fact that he is finishing a lot near the rim, the euroLeague will be a good indicator if he can translates that to the NBA. I will try to see some Red star games.

[R. DeMurre]

[QUOTE=Bruno;11004888]Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.

Good observation. Christian Braun measured out at 6'7" in shoes with a 6'6.5" wingspan, and a standing reach of 8'3.5" standing reach-- just one example.

[duncan2150]

About the wingspan just seeing some photos, he has a good one maybe not 7’0 but could be 6’9 6’10.

[onechance87]

i agree about his range imo he is more a 4-8 pick actually than a top three. Imo we ´re more Higher here in ST on topic than the consensus.

interesting fact that he is finishing a lot near the rim, the euroLeague will be a good indicator if he can translates that to the NBA. I will try to see some Red star games.

and who is top 3 worthy pick in this draft so far

[spurraider21]

maybe he just has a really long neck

tho im not seeing a 7ft wingspan either

[duncan2150]

and who is top 3 worthy pick in this draft so far

First i’m not saying topic does not worth a top 3 pick, just that his range is more 4-8 imo but that could change.

imo there is no sure thing in this draft but i could see Holland, Walter and then some of buzelis, sarr … for the top3, topic is also in the mix.

[BackHome]

This draft is so open but I think the first two will be Sarr and Buzelis, but as i said before this draft more then any other will be about fit more then drafting on potential. One thing is that every player in the top 10 has some warts and I expect more of the top of the draft will end up in G League there first year then being a major contributor day 1. Just looking at PG there is only 1 player who is really a shooter and that is Reed, every other top PG has to work on there shooting from mid to the 3 ball.

[spurraider21]

This draft is so open but I think the first two will be Sarr and Buzelis, but as i said before this draft more then any other will be about fit more then drafting on potential. One thing is that every player in the top 10 has some warts and I expect more of the top of the draft will end up in G League there first year then being a major contributor day 1. Just looking at PG there is only 1 player who is really a shooter and that is Reed, every other top PG has to work on there shooting from mid to the 3 ball.


i agree with this. there isnt a huge talent disparity at the top that would supersede need/fit this year. personally i dont think Sarr stands out enough to look like a #1 overall type but tbh nobody really does this year. could be holland/buzelis at top as well

[bluebellmaniac]

Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.

- Topic has scored 18.6 ppg this season and his scoring breakdown is the following:

10.2 ppg in the paint
0.6 ppg from 2s outside the paint
3.9 ppg from 3's (closer line than in the NBA and with a 28.8 3P%)
3.9 ppg from the free throw line
His offense is coming from the paint and there is a true question mark on whether or it will translate to the NBA. It's a big reason why he isn't higher on mock drafts currently despite all his qualities.
I find that he has a good combination of size, quickness and craftiness to score inside at he NBA level. However, if he can't improve his jumpshot and develop a floater, I fear he will be too predictable to be successful against the more athletic NBA players.

- Topic's dad is a former high level basketball player. I like prospects that are coming from basektball families because it often translates into players that easily coachable and have a high BBIQ.

- It's great that he is leaving Mega to get back to Red Star. It will answer some doubts on his game. Right now, I think Topic is a fine prospect for the Raptors pick (if Spurs get it) but not for the Spurs' one. If he does well in Euroleague/ABA playoffs, he will be a legitimate candidate for Spurs' projected top 6 pick.

Bruno!!! Is in da HAWSE!!!

[The Truth #6]

Hard to say about the wingspan. Well, I guess we need to see X-rays of his growth plates.

[bluebellmaniac]

Thought he'd be a good pick, but nvm. Don't need players who wear pick. Our history with those guys doesn't bode well.

Pass.

/satire

[John B]

I am huge on Topic.....unfortunately, I saw a mock that had Detroit drafting him at 1. That would really piss me off if that happened.

I also like Sarr, but I would take Topic over him.

I doubt Pistons are drafting another guard. They already have 11 or something like that.

I like Topic. I’m hoping he’s a Doncic 2.0 with the Bball IQ and just the poise. He finishes 71% in the paint?? That’s like TP when he led FG percentage finishing among trees. But damn I like the nostalgic twin tower Wemby/Sarr and what that could possibly mean defensively. I know Sarr is far from DRob. But a wishful thinking if Sarr could develop close to the defensive force.

But yes Topic as 1st pick would be awesome and a defensive SF at 2nd pick, if Holland falls to TOR pick why not.

[SpursBills]

Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.

- Topic has scored 18.6 ppg this season and his scoring breakdown is the following:

10.2 ppg in the paint
0.6 ppg from 2s outside the paint
3.9 ppg from 3's (closer line than in the NBA and with a 28.8 3P%)
3.9 ppg from the free throw line

His offense is coming from the paint and there is a true question mark on whether or it will translate to the NBA. It's a big reason why he isn't higher on mock drafts currently despite all his qualities.
I find that he has a good combination of size, quickness and craftiness to score inside at he NBA level. However, if he can't improve his jumpshot and develop a floater, I fear he will be too predictable to be successful against the more athletic NBA players.

- Topic's dad is a former high level basketball player. I like prospects that are coming from basektball families because it often translates into players that easily coachable and have a high BBIQ.

- It's great that he is leaving Mega to get back to Red Star. It will answer some doubts on his game. Right now, I think Topic is a fine prospect for the Raptors pick (if Spurs get it) but not for the Spurs' one. If he does well in Euroleague/ABA playoffs, he will be a legitimate candidate for Spurs' projected top 6 pick.

Thanks for your response! I'm still having a hard time gauging the relative strengths of the different leagues.

How would rate defensive quality in ABA league vs other leagues such as Jeep Elite, Turkish Superleague, and NBL? I know ACB is probably above all of these teams in quality. Even though talent in G league is most likely somewhere in between ACB and other European leagues, I think the defense being played is probably far inferior to all of the above. Also, where does Eurocup competition slot in relative to these domestic leagues? Trying to see how Risacher rates as an 18 year old as well.

[exstatic]

I’m sorry, there is no way the guy has a 7ft wingspan. Dont think he has TRex arms or anything, but just looks average. Dont doubt his bbiq potential, but let’s hits the breaks— dude is still 18. Think most important thing is being generally smart and coachable so that when he’s 22 he shows that bbiq off.

I do like him, but I think he’s getting overhyped in here, at least, I think it’s still an open question whether Spurs should take him with, say, the second pick.

18 YOs who dominate grown men in Europe are worthy of hype. The recent list is Doncic and Sengün, and they both excelled, after being UNDERVALUED before the draft. Doncic was drafted in 2018, and Sengün in 2021, three years apart. This next draft is 2024, three years after Sengün.

[TimmyBuckets]

If Spurs get the 3rd, hopefully, teams value Collier and Sarr higher because Topic is definietly the guy we need. He also has a pace and maturity to his game that can translate really well.

[spurraider21]

I doubt Pistons are drafting another guard. They already have 11 or something like that.

I like Topic. I’m hoping he’s a Doncic 2.0 with the Bball IQ and just the poise. He finishes 71% in the paint?? That’s like TP when he led FG percentage finishing among trees. But damn I like the nostalgic twin tower Wemby/Sarr and what that could possibly mean defensively. I know Sarr is far from DRob. But a wishful thinking if Sarr could develop close to the defensive force.

But yes Topic as 1st pick would be awesome and a defensive SF at 2nd pick, if Holland falls to TOR pick why not.
pistons could easily take Topic and see him as an off-ramp to Cunningham if they dont believe he is worth the monster extension he's going to want, and could look to trade him

[spurraider21]

If Spurs get the 3rd, hopefully, teams value Collier and Sarr higher because Topic is definietly the guy we need. He also has a pace and maturity to his game that can translate really well.
I'm a big fan of Topic but Buzelis would also be a very nice fit for us if we are picking near the top

[onechance87]

I'm a big fan of Topic but Buzelis would also be a very nice fit for us if we are picking near the top

stop it bro...buzelis is another berthans...Same player

[spurraider21]

stop it bro...buzelis is another berthans...Same player
he's a lot closer to Franz Wagner than Bertans

[TimmyBuckets]

I'm a big fan of Topic but Buzelis would also be a very nice fit for us if we are picking near the top

I also like Buzelis, but at that high of a position, if available, a highly competent PG should be more of a priority.

[objective]

Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.
. .

I agree with the wingspan being suspect, but the biggest suspect thing is his height

I've posted it in other threads, but the more I watch him the more it stands out to me; he has a Bryn Forbes body size feet to shoulders but topped off with a giraffe neck and a giant Frankenstein head

He might technically reach 6-6, but there's 3 extra inches of vertebrae and cranium that are getting him there. That's why his reach is so short for his height, his arms have so far to travel to clear his head.

I watch the new scouting videos of him and still don't really see the hype. Nice touch for a straight line driver. Good passer, bad shooting bad ion defense, lots of give up in him when trying to cover faster guys.

But I'll have to watch some full games after the new year, watching other people's select highlights and scouting breakdowns probably doesn't do him justice.

[BackHome]

I also like Buzelis, but at that high of a position, if available, a highly competent PG should be more of a priority.

Yeah, as long as we get Topic or Buzelis I will be a happy camper as I think both can be starters with Wemby down the road. I am not counting on the Raptors pick I don't want to be let down if we don't get it this year so just hoping we pick one of these two guys. I also think we can get a good backup player with our first second round pick.

On a side not I wonder if Wemby will have any pull with the team and want another French player to be picked up in this upcoming draft?

[KobesAchilles]

I wouldn’t mind either him or Collier with our pick and then Richachet with the Tor pick. Covers a lot of our mess in one draft. We get defense and playmaking and shooting all in one draft

[mo7888]

Sarr, Buzelis, and Topic are probably the 3 at the top that fit best next to Wembanyama. If the Toronto pick comes in at #7 we could conceivably end up with 2 of those 3.

[spurraider21]

Risacher with Toronto pick is probably the best case scenario, and coming away with either of Topic or Buzelis with our natural pick would be a win. Topic has a wider range out of outcomes than buzelis

at least that’s my take before the new year

[Bruno]

Thanks for your response! I'm still having a hard time gauging the relative strengths of the different leagues.

How would rate defensive quality in ABA league vs other leagues such as Jeep Elite, Turkish Superleague, and NBL? I know ACB is probably above all of these teams in quality. Even though talent in G league is most likely somewhere in between ACB and other European leagues, I think the defense being played is probably far inferior to all of the above. Also, where does Eurocup competition slot in relative to these domestic leagues? Trying to see how Risacher rates as an 18 year old as well.

In Europe, Euroleague teams are one step ahead of the other teams. Euroleague is by far the best basketball played outside the NBA and national teams.

Middle of the pack teams from Spain, France, Germany, Italy, Greece and Turkey aren't that far from one another. They heavily rely us on former NCAA players. Most of these teams have 4 or 5 former NCAA players that are starters or key bench players. As a result playing style isn't that different between various leagues. Teams from leagues with the most money, like Spain, are obviously better since they can get better and/or more experienced "American" players but I don't think there is a huge gap.

ABA league is a little different since they rely significantly less on foreign players. That's why when you look at Topic's highlights, he is mostly playing against a bunch of white dudes. This specificity of ABA league was a big reason why I wanted to see Topic playing in another league. Euroleague will be great to evaluate him.

There are quite a lot of talent in G league but it's way less structured than in Europe. I could be easily explained by less practices, constant roster changes and some players wanted to showcase themselves.

[The Truth #6]

I think getting Jakobe Walter and Rob Dillingham is more realistic but hopefully we get lucky with the lottery balls and get options.

[Bruno]

I watch the new scouting videos of him and still don't really see the hype.

It's really unusual for a 18 years old player to be that productive in Europe. He deserves a lot of credits for that.

Aside of that, circumstances are also helping him. Few draft prospects have looked great. The would be less Topic talk if a player like Collier was shinning is college. Spurs also are in desperate need of a PG.

[objective]

I've watched a lot of ABA over the years though not this year and not like when the Spurs had Dangubic or had picked up Baynes, so I'm not unfamiliar with how he's performing in context

But there's another thing that I don't like in his game, that he's a way below the rim player at 6-6 even if that does come from a Rondo Hatton like head

6-6 guys who can't get vertical and finish better be legit shooters. Bolmaro was wonderfully exciting with passing and flair but couldn't get off the ground and couldn't shoot. Primo didn't just have cement shoes making him slow but they also kept him on the ground and he had problems shooting.

Topic does look like he has good touch and can really drive some distance off his last step, but he's also a collect and gather 2 foot jumper at the rim for dunk attempts. Dejounte was a 2 footer but at least did so explosively and pretty quickly became a legit shooter from midrange and has slowly built it out.

I can't tell if I think Topic will have a harder time with drives in the NBA because of the better athletes or will be fine because of his touch. I remember concerns about Luka getting looks off in Spain where some 30 year old inferior athletes were almost getting to his shot and the question if NBA defensive wings would actually affect it in a big game changing way. Clearly Luka handled it fine.

[BackHome]

One thing I like about Topic is he seek out contact and is able to finish at a high rate I am not worried about him getting to the rim I am more worried about defense and his 3 ball. But, everything else looks great for someone 18 years old playing against professional teams he is doing some very rare things at his age.

[exstatic]

I've watched a lot of ABA over the years though not this year and not like when the Spurs had Dangubic or had picked up Baynes, so I'm not unfamiliar with how he's performing in context

But there's another thing that I don't like in his game, that he's a way below the rim player at 6-6 even if that does come from a Rondo Hatton like head

6-6 guys who can't get vertical and finish better be legit shooters. Bolmaro was wonderfully exciting with passing and flair but couldn't get off the ground and couldn't shoot. Primo didn't just have cement shoes making him slow but they also kept him on the ground and he had problems shooting.

Topic does look like he has good touch and can really drive some distance off his last step, but he's also a collect and gather 2 foot jumper at the rim for dunk attempts. Dejounte was a 2 footer but at least did so explosively and pretty quickly became a legit shooter from midrange and has slowly built it out.

I can't tell if I think Topic will have a harder time with drives in the NBA because of the better athletes or will be fine because of his touch. I remember concerns about Luka getting looks off in Spain where some 30 year old inferior athletes were almost getting to his shot and the question if NBA defensive wings would actually affect it in a big game changing way. Clearly Luka handled it fine.

These are the exact same issues teams had with Doncic, and guess what, he’s still not a vertical player, and he was an AllStar at 20, shooting .316 from 3. Most of what differentiates good players from great players isn’t physical,it’s between the ears.

Euros are just different. They know the game inside and out,so they don’t need verticality like the less polished Americans.

[TD 21]

It's not that Topic is some sure thing, it's that this team is desperately in need of a primary creator and only him, Collier and maybe Dillingham project to conceivably fit the description and anyone who knows how the Spurs operate knows they won't consider the latter two.

Otherwise, we're probably looking at a projected secondary creator like Buzelis or a 3 and D type like Risacher.



Euros are just different. They know the game inside and out,so they don’t need verticality like the less polished Americans.

The exact kind of archaic, stereotypical, laced with racial undertone thinking that has this franchise in the state they're in.

[The Truth #6]

It's not that Topic is some sure thing, it's that this team is desperately in need of a primary creator and only him, Collier and maybe Dillingham project to conceivably fit the description and anyone who knows how the Spurs operate knows they won't consider the latter two.

Otherwise, we're probably looking at a projected secondary creator like Buzelis or a 3 and D type like Risacher.




The exact kind of archaic, stereotypical, laced with racial undertone thinking that has this franchise in the state they're in.

When was the last time we drafted a white player...Luka? Or are you concerned that the Spurs don't draft players who are "too black"? That seems to be the argument you are making.

[TD 21]

When was the last time we drafted a white player...Luka? Or are you concerned that the Spurs don't draft players who are "too black"? That seems to be the argument you are making.

I'm concerned that they limit themselves to mostly straying from players from the inner city, who represent the biggest talent pool, because they suppsedly don't fit their precious "culture".

They could get away with that when they had talent like they did during the dynasty. Now? They can't afford to continue to throw picks in the garbage, as they've done so often recently.

[The Truth #6]

I'm concerned that they limit themselves to mostly straying from players from the inner city, who represent the biggest talent pool, because they suppsedly don't fit their precious "culture".

They could get away with that when they had talent like they did during the dynasty. Now? They can't afford to continue to throw picks in the garbage, as they've done so often recently.

I generally see what you are getting at. But said overlooked player still needs to be good. So, just curious, would you draft Topic or Collier with the FRP? Both are point guards who are supposed to go high in the draft.

[TD 21]

I generally see what you are getting at. But said overlooked player still needs to be good. So, just curious, would you draft Topic or Collier with the FRP? Both are point guards who are supposed to go high in the draft.

Yeah, that's the point. More focus on talent, less focus on virtually everything else.

I'd draft Topic, but I'd consider Collier.

[SpursBills]

I'm concerned that they limit themselves to mostly straying from players from the inner city, who represent the biggest talent pool, because they suppsedly don't fit their precious "culture".

They could get away with that when they had talent like they did during the dynasty. Now? They can't afford to continue to throw picks in the garbage, as they've done so often recently.

I think I agree with the principle of this, but can you give some examples of how they passed on inner city talent in the past few drafts? Were you advocating for bundling future assets to move up for Shaedon Sharpe 2 years ago? Or trading a ton of future draft equity to buy a pick for Scoot to pair with Wemby last year? We call the 2021 draft garbage now, but I think most people on this board were happy with the picks, maybe with the exception of rascal. Are you suggesting that the spurs would have taken a guy like Garland over Ja if they had been in position to in 2020? Just wanted to clarify your point here.

[TD 21]

I think I agree with the principle of this, but can you give some examples of how they passed on inner city talent in the past few drafts? Were you advocating for bundling future assets to move up for Shaedon Sharpe 2 years ago? Or trading a ton of future draft equity to buy a pick for Scoot to pair with Wemby last year? We call the 2021 draft garbage now, but I think most people on this board were happy with the picks, maybe with the exception of rascal. Are you suggesting that the spurs would have taken a guy like Garland over Ja if they had been in position to in 2020? Just wanted to clarify your point here.

It's not just passed on, I believe they won't even consider them unless the value/need to asset ratio (like Blair in the 2nd or Murray at 29) pendulum swings so far in the latter direction.

I have no proof of this, but am confident they'd have taken either Thompson twin over Henderson (which might end up right, but for the wrong reasons) and Barrett over Morant.

Why do you think they target biracial (particularly foreign) players? Black enough physical tools without the cliched baggage/mentality that typically comes with inner city types.

[rascal]

It's not that Topic is some sure thing, it's that this team is desperately in need of a primary creator and only him, Collier and maybe Dillingham project to conceivably fit the description and anyone who knows how the Spurs operate knows they won't consider the latter two.

Otherwise, we're probably looking at a projected secondary creator like Buzelis or a 3 and D type like Risacher.




The exact kind of archaic, stereotypical, laced with racial undertone thinking that has this franchise in the state they're in.

Yeah right, load the roster with slow, vertically challenged players.

[CGD]

he's a lot closer to Franz Wagner than Bertans

I also think Matas would be a good selection in the Top 3. In my opinion the best fit in the front court with Wemby and Sochan long term is a Jabari Parker type (size, shooting, D, secondary creation but doesn’t need the ball to be impactful), and I think Matas fits the bill the most of the bunch (with Rachiare close behind if his shooting streak isn’t a fluke).

And, he is no Bert on D:

Per SI: “While he still has room for improvement, Buzelis’ defensive disruptiveness has been promising. He’s already produced 21 stocks (steals + blocks) through eight contests. He’s also showcased his versatility on that end and future upside of being able to guard upwards of three positions. If he can prove to be a plus defender for most of the season, his draft stock should swing significantly.”

[spurraider21]

I also think Matas would be a good selection in the Top 3. In my opinion the best fit in the front court with Wemby and Sochan long term is a Jabari Parker type (size, shooting, D, secondary creation but doesn’t need the ball to be impactful), and I think Matas fits the bill the most of the bunch (with Rachiare close behind if his shooting streak isn’t a fluke).

And, he is no Bert on D:

Per SI: “While he still has room for improvement, Buzelis’ defensive disruptiveness has been promising. He’s already produced 21 stocks (steals + blocks) through eight contests. He’s also showcased his versatility on that end and future upside of being able to guard upwards of three positions. If he can prove to be a plus defender for most of the season, his draft stock should swing significantly.”
im not operating with any certainty that sochan is necessarily a core player alongside wemby

he might be... but hasnt proven it yet tbh. he has to be more than a passable defender to justify his presence in the starting unit

[duncan2150]

im not operating with any certainty that sochan is necessarily a core player alongside wemby

he might be... but hasnt proven it yet tbh. he has to be more than a passable defender to justify his presence in the starting unit

Imo the point is more on matas globally and i agree with CGD he is showing some nice thing defensively, strangely the 3pt % is bad.

[SpursBills]

The one wrinkle that may make the spurs take a guy like Matas if they believe in him is that the spurs have shown a desire to have multiple ball handlers who can all shoot, pass, and drive. This theoretically works well in a playoff setting where guys can get schemed. If the spurs take Topic, they are committing to a specific style of play with him as a semi-heliocentric ball handler creating for others. Topic is not someone who I would try and play off-ball, much like a guy like Jeremy Lin. If you compare at Lin's efficiency when he was the primary creator with the knicks vs with the rockets the next year when he was forced into an off-ball role next to Harden, there's a huge difference.

If the spurs are committed to having multiple ball handlers who can all attack, they are probably drafting a guy like Matas with their first pick and then will go hard after a guy like Reed Sheppard with their second pick as a guy who can hold his own defensively, shoot lights out, and function as a passable creator. A lineup of Sheppard-Vassell-Matas-Sochan-Wemby in theory provides you with multiple guys who can create or shoot, especially with Sochan's developing shot. This is an interesting stylistic change compared to a theoretical lineup of Topic-Vassell-Risacher-Sochan-Wemby and I'd be curious regarding others' thoughts on the differences between these two lineups.

[onechance87]

yall keep saying matas....But if he was on the spurs rn he would be struggling shooting...Like
we need another inconsistent shooter on this team

[spurraider21]

or you go

insert pg - Vassell - Risacher - Buzelis - Wemby

[exstatic]

The one wrinkle that may make the spurs take a guy like Matas if they believe in him is that the spurs have shown a desire to have multiple ball handlers who can all shoot, pass, and drive. This theoretically works well in a playoff setting where guys can get schemed. If the spurs take Topic, they are committing to a specific style of play with him as a semi-heliocentric ball handler creating for others. Topic is not someone who I would try and play off-ball, much like a guy like Jeremy Lin. If you compare at Lin's efficiency when he was the primary creator with the knicks vs with the rockets the next year when he was forced into an off-ball role next to Harden, there's a huge difference.

If the spurs are committed to having multiple ball handlers who can all attack, they are probably drafting a guy like Matas with their first pick and then will go hard after a guy like Reed Sheppard with their second pick as a guy who can hold his own defensively, shoot lights out, and function as a passable creator. A lineup of Sheppard-Vassell-Matas-Sochan-Wemby in theory provides you with multiple guys who can create or shoot, especially with Sochan's developing shot. This is an interesting stylistic change compared to a theoretical lineup of Topic-Vassell-Risacher-Sochan-Wemby and I'd be curious regarding others' thoughts on the differences between these two lineups.

Topić’s usage is 24.6, nowhere in the vicinity of heliocentric.

[SpursBills]

Topić’s usage is 24.6, nowhere in the vicinity of heliocentric.

That's true, but Luka's was 26.9 his last season at Real and look at him now. I haven't seen enough of Topic honestly as a cutter or spot of shooter to believe much in him as a good off ball player. I think I read somewhere that his off the dribble 3% is higher than his catch and shoot %.

[BackHome]

yall keep saying matas....But if he was on the spurs rn he would be struggling shooting...Like
we need another inconsistent shooter on this team

Realistically there are only two shooters in the top of the draft and that would be SG - Ja'Kobe Walter and PG/SG - Reed Sheppard

[duncan2150]

Red star is playing in three hours againt Pana ( jerian grant, juancho hernangomez, kendrick nunn); we'll see if topic is there.

[exstatic]

That's true, but Luka's was 26.9 his last season at Real and look at him now. I haven't seen enough of Topic honestly as a cutter or spot of shooter to believe much in him as a good off ball player. I think I read somewhere that his off the dribble 3% is higher than his catch and shoot %.

Luka didn’t arrive in Dallas with a Wemby on the roster. He was kind of forced into his role, and it’s really hard to roll that back once a player gets that many touches.

[TheBallsbreakers]

Victor is not a great defender merely because of his height. His timing and defensive IQ is incredible.

[baseline bum]

im not operating with any certainty that sochan is necessarily a core player alongside wemby

he might be... but hasnt proven it yet tbh. he has to be more than a passable defender to justify his presence in the starting unit

Baby steps man, Sochan has to get to passable defender first.

[Atl Spur]

Baby steps man, Sochan has to get to passable defender first.

Sad but true! I’m high on buddy but his defense and effort has been truly lacking.

[duncan2150]

https://twitter.com/CoreyTulaba/status/1741890824223195185

[SouthernFryd]

San Antonio is known for poor Defense and bad shooting.

Topics biggest weakness? Poor defense and bad shooting.

Uh....

[rascal]

San Antonio is known for poor Defense and bad shooting.

Topics biggest weakness? Poor defense and bad shooting.

Uh....

I'm not high on Topic.

He is too weak in many areas and if he can't get to the rim for layups like he's doing in these softer leagues at the same rate in the NBA what is he going to bring to the team.

[exstatic]

I'm not high on Topic.

He is too weak in many areas and if he can't get to the rim for layups like he's doing in these softer leagues at the same rate in the NBA what is he going to bring to the team.

Hate to break it to you, but Europe is not softer in the paint, the NBA is. Doncic constantly says how much easier it is to score here than in the Euroleague. You almost can’t touch an NBA player driving to the rim, without fouling.

[baseline bum]

Hate to break it to you, but Europe is not softer in the paint, the NBA is. Doncic constantly says how much easier it is to score here than in the Euroleague. You almost can’t touch an NBA player driving to the rim, without fouling.

He's played 10 minutes of Euroleague in his career according to Basketball Reference

https://www.basketball-reference.com/international/players/nikola-topic-1.html

If he puts up big numbers in Euroleague I'll be extremely impressed by him but ABA and Euroleague games are two different animals.

[exstatic]

He's played 10 minutes of Euroleague in his career according to Basketball Reference

https://www.basketball-reference.com/international/players/nikola-topic-1.html

He just probably doubled that in his first game back, and will finish the season with Red Star after his call up. He’ll be evaluated as having played in Euroleague, since more than half his games will be there by the end of the season.

[rascal]

Hate to break it to you, but Europe is not softer in the paint, the NBA is. Doncic constantly says how much easier it is to score here than in the Euroleague. You almost can’t touch an NBA player driving to the rim, without fouling.

Not buying it. The NBA is the best basketball league in the world. The players are faster and bigger and jump better in the NBA.

[scott]

In his Dec 30 game, Topic logged 24 minutes in a starting role (tied for most on the team with an American ex-pat named Mike Tobey who played 2 NBA games in 2016-17), and scored 8 pts (2-10 FG, 0-5 3P, 4-4 FT), 3 Reb, 5 Ast, 3 TO, 1 Block. His team won 80-48. I don't know if this was a Euroleague game or not (more on that below)

Folks can follow along the team's progress here: https://basketball.realgm.com/international/league/1/Euroleague/team/180/KK-Crvena-Zvezda/schedule

Here is his season stats page: https://basketball.realgm.com/player/Nikola-Topic/Summary/179307

The first link lists the Dec 30 game as Euroleague but his individual stats show only one game back with this team and it is under Liga ABA. Either will, will reserve judgement until more games are under the belt.

Didn't know Adam Hanga was on his team

[scott]

Not buying it. The NBA is the best basketball league in the world. The players are faster and bigger and jump better in the NBA.

These Euroleagues are full of guys not good enough for the NBA who probably foul hard AF, and refs too afraid for their lives to call a foul. I don't doubt it's more physical in that way :lol

[TD 21]

San Antonio is known for poor Defense and bad shooting.

Topics biggest weakness? Poor defense and bad shooting.

Uh....

They're also known for lack of rim pressure and play making.

Topic's biggest strengths? Rim pressure and play making.

[Jordan Jackson]

The NBA is a tough place for guards who aren’t credible threats from 3 or defend. There is a reason OKC is going to punt Giddey off that team the first chance they get - his off court issues notwithstanding.

[The Truth #6]

Not buying it. The NBA is the best basketball league in the world. The players are faster and bigger and jump better in the NBA.

Are you concerned that Topic has a melanin and cornrow deficiency?

[exstatic]

Not buying it. The NBA is the best basketball league in the world. The players are faster and bigger and jump better in the NBA.

Doesn’t really matter if you buy it or not. I’ll take Doncic as a subject matter expert over you 7 days a week and twice on Sundays

[Russ]

Doesn’t really matter if you buy it or not. I’ll take Doncic as a subject matter expert over you 7 days a week and twice on Sundays

Topic's got the ic factor -- like Doncic.

He'll make it big in the NBA and he's the type of drink-stirring player the Spurs could use just like Manu was (and, of course, they said the same things about Manu before he came over, like how he would never do those Euro things over here).

[Bruno]

In his Dec 30 game, Topic logged 24 minutes in a starting role (tied for most on the team with an American ex-pat named Mike Tobey who played 2 NBA games in 2016-17), and scored 8 pts (2-10 FG, 0-5 3P, 4-4 FT), 3 Reb, 5 Ast, 3 TO, 1 Block. His team won 80-48. I don't know if this was a Euroleague game or not (more on that below)


It was an ABA League game. He hasn't played in Euroleague so far. His team has a game against a Turkish team today.

Here is his Euroleague schedule:
https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/games/red/?season=2023-24
His Euroleague stats will be available there:
https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nikola-topic/010985/

[duncan2150]

It was an ABA League game. He hasn't played in Euroleague so far. His team has a game against a Turkish team today.

Here is his Euroleague schedule:
https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade/games/red/?season=2023-24
His Euroleague stats will be available there:
https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nikola-topic/010985/

Yes and normally he will play. He was With the team for their last euroLeague game.

[TheGreatYacht]

Selecting this scrub over Rob Dillingham should be punishable worse than an act of terrorism would be by the US Supreme Court.

[John B]

These Euroleagues are full of guys not good enough for the NBA who probably foul hard AF, and refs too afraid for their lives to call a foul. I don't doubt it's more physical in that way :lol

The last 3 mvp’s are international plus Wemby and Doncic soon… they’re good enough :lol

[CorrectCrusader]

First game in the Euro League
https://i.imgur.com/XVLhKvc.png

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNnzHw2YRzU

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bPaK59HuwEw

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y2XUR5rGL3I

[cutewizard]

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

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H1mv8l4ZsTE

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NMnyY-yJnXw

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-9Y1_T9DtzE

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=asJn8ej1ec8

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aB5fMl16e-s

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXiZbuQuB6s

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kh1ICY3_Hzk

[cutewizard]

From these views, I am impressed with Topic (we need a point guard)

and Missi (we need a defensive-minded center)

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ_uoVTS-sc

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y7sLUD8wv0E

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=av0BhcdlEcY

[Frenchfred]

First game in the Euro League
https://i.imgur.com/XVLhKvc.png

not super impressive

[onechance87]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ_uoVTS-sc

yup i like missi....Wouldnt mind getting him with raptors pick if we got it

[duncan2150]

not super impressive

i Watched the first half, he was a little bit shy on offense but he looked like a real floor manager right there and could have had 2 or 3 more assists easily if his teammates were just right.

on D the effort was there but he looked a little bit lost sometimes.

[lefty]

I thought this thread was a toke when I saw the title

[DAF86]

I don't know if this guy is what we need. I'm tired of suspect 3pt shooters. I think I'd rather draft a 3 and D guy with little upside than yet another "high ceiling" guy that can't shoot.

[Bruno]

https://twitter.com/ZachMilner13/status/1743006438983970926

Let's hope for him it's just a knee sprain.

[pad300]

https://twitter.com/ZachMilner13/status/1743006438983970926

Let's hope for him it's just a knee sprain.

It improves our chances of being able to pick him... Hopefully it's nothing with career implications.

[Seventyniner]

I've started running lottery sims on Tankathon for shits and giggles. I don't know if it's just luck or if the sim is bugged, but I have run about 40 sims and the Spurs always end up with either the 1st, 5th, or 6th pick.

Since the Spurs have the second worst record their natural pick can't fall below #6, but it's strange to have done so many sims and never gotten #2/3/4.

[Bruno]

He is out for 4 to 6 weeks.

https://kkcrvenazvezda-rs.translate.goog/2024/01/05/kk-crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-nikoli-topicu-sledi-pauza-bolomboj-i-mitrovic-uskoro-na-terenu/?_x_tr_sl=sr&_x_tr_tl=fen&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=sc (https://kkcrvenazvezda-rs.translate.goog/2024/01/05/kk-crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-nikoli-topicu-sledi-pauza-bolomboj-i-mitrovic-uskoro-na-terenu/?_x_tr_sl=sr&_x_tr_tl=en&_x_tr_hl=en&_x_tr_pto=sc)

[manufan10]

1743277065032315109

[hater]

Is this a jokic?

[hater]

We need to stop amassing euro nerds

Spurs have never won a ship without real thug life jigz on the roster like Capt Jack, Bob Horry, Malik rose, Kevin Willis


Wake up

[CGD]

We need to stop amassing euro nerds

Spurs have never won a ship without real thug life jigz on the roster like Capt Jack, Bob Horry, Malik rose, Kevin Willis


Wake up

Yes, let’s use a Top 3 pick on a Malik Rose clone!

Also, Tony Parker says hi.

[John B]

I've started running lottery sims on Tankathon for shits and giggles. I don't know if it's just luck or if the sim is bugged, but I have run about 40 sims and the Spurs always end up with either the 1st, 5th, or 6th pick.

Since the Spurs have the second worst record their natural pick can't fall below #6, but it's strange to have done so many sims and never gotten #2/3/4.

On the same note, I rarely see the TOR staying when Spurs got the 1st pick. I rather they get two top picks instead of just #1.

[hater]

Yes, let’s use a Top 3 pick on a Malik Rose clone!

Also, Tony Parker says hi.

Our team needs medium-elite thugs. We have never won without them.

Fact

[spurraider21]

We need to stop amassing euro nerds

Spurs have never won a ship without real thug life jigz on the roster like Capt Jack, Bob Horry, Malik rose, Kevin Willis


Wake up
Who was the thug in 2014? Patty Mills? :lol

[hater]

Who was the thug in 2014? Patty Mills? :lol

Correct

[spurraider21]

Correct
He wasn’t just an OG he was an ABoriginal g

[hater]

He wasn’t just an OG he was an ABoriginal g

:tu

I've been to Australia

Aboriginals make Compton OGs look like puppies

[rjv]

this thread has really gone off topic

[KobesAchilles]

If they both are gonna suck at defense, I see nothing about Topic that makes me want to pick him above Dilly

[John B]

this thread has really gone off topic

I see what you did there

[pad300]

If they both are gonna suck at defense, I see nothing about Topic that makes me want to pick him above Dilly

Topic's likely to suck much less; he might end up being decent to good. Dillingham is undersized even for a point (as in smaller than Trae Young); physically he is outmatched no matter who he's matched up against in the NBA. Topic is reportedly 6'6" and 7'0" wingspan - big enough to cover 2's and have a shot against 3's... Even if he's smaller than reported (say 6'4" and 6'9" WS), that's still good size at PG. Also, he's 18; Topic will probably get better at defending with experience. Especially if the coach pushes him...

[BackHome]

Yeah, I don’t think Topic will ever be looked as a stopper but I think he can hold his own with most PG in the league. It sucks that he got injured but it might help him as starting on a brand new team has to be pretty hard for any player much less the team leader - PG. Can someone let us now how long the season is with his new team?

[exstatic]

Our team needs medium-elite thugs. We have never won without them.

Fact

2014

[exstatic]

this thread has really gone off topic

On that note, if we do draft him, someone needs to start his shrine thread:

The Hot Topic of Nikola Topić

[cutewizard]

yup i like missi....Wouldnt mind getting him with raptors pick if we got it

great

[cutewizard]

we really need a point guard par excellence

[Ed Helicopter Jones]

I hope this isn’t what we’re wasting a year of Wemby’s career trying to tank for.

[Uriel]

Wanted to bump this thread because it reminded me of how highly regarded Topic was pre-injury. Of course, he's fallen off most big boards since then due to health concerns. But at his best, he really was viewed as one of the top-tier prospects in this draft, as OP's post so eloquently reminds us.

It's also worth remembering that when evaluating prospects, it's important to evaluate their whole body of work, and not just the most recent developments.

[rascal]

It wouldn't surprise me if Topic is the pick at 4 if Sarr, Risacher and Castle are off the board at 4.

[lefty20]

It wouldn't surprise me if Topic is the pick at 4 if Sarr, Risacher and Castle are off the board at 4.

Gotta go Sheppard in this scenario.

Topic should be available at 8.

[R. DeMurre]

The #4 & #8 will be so heavily determined by the choices of other teams. Topic was square in discussion for #1 four months ago, but could now realistically fall to the Spurs at #8. It's funny how often a GM's reputation is set up by another GM's choice... One great example: Presti had Greg Oden #1 on his board, but was forced to take Durant after Portland's decision.

[onechance87]

we should be drafting players on the potential of playing along side wemby the next several of years.I think it either gonna be castle,topic,
dilly,cody,reed or matas.

[CGD]

Anyone have intel on him post injury?

I definitely think the media will lever him up to the Top 5 again if he is able to work out again. And, yes, i think the Spurs' supposed "lack of interest" is BS lol

[duncan2150]

Anyone have intel on him post injury?I definitely think the media will lever him up to the Top 5 again if he is able to work out again. And, yes, i think the Spurs' supposed "lack of interest" is BS lolThe intel will come next week where he is supposed to be measured at treviso. Totally agree about the lack of interest

[Knoxxx]

Now that we have two picks and if we take a safer bet at 4 he could then make a decent dart throw at 8.

[CGD]

The intel will come next week where he is supposed to be measured at treviso. Totally agree about the lack of interest

Nice. I still think he’ll be a Spur. If he’s there at 8, they won’t be able to help themselves. And, if he performs decently well next week I think he’ll be in play at 4. We haven’t heard the last of this guy.

[rascal]

Now that we have two picks and if we take a safer bet at 4 he could then make a decent dart throw at 8.

I'm convinced the Spurs will draft Topic before both Dillingham and Sheppard.

[CGD]

I'm convinced the Spurs will draft Topic before both Dillingham and Sheppard.

I concur. I think they would love to find a way to come away with 2 of Risacher, Topic, and Castle.

And, realizing they may not be able to, Plan B for #8 will be the best of Saluan or Williams. Worst case on Saluan, if they miss, they can alway frame it as a “give to Wemby” with the whole French/personal connection.

[The Truth #6]

Topic at 4 and Cody at 8 feels like the cliched surprise picks they could go for in the end. But Brian does things different enough than RC so maybe not.

[R. DeMurre]

Has anyone seen current news on Topic? I looked and didn't see anything. Last thing I heard was the knee would be ok by June and he'd be in the states for workouts.

[Extra Stout]

I think Castle or Sheppard at 4, and if Topic is BPA at 8 so be it.

[R. DeMurre]

I think Castle or Sheppard at 4, and if Topic is BPA at 8 so be it.


I'm leaning this way too. Topic is 6'6" at 18, and could easily grow another inch, so in theory at least he could easily share a back court with another PG without that back court compromising on overall size.

[LeBowen]

I'm leaning this way too. Topic is 6'6" at 18, and could easily grow another inch, so in theory at least he could easily share a back court with another PG without that back court compromising on overall size.

Even if he's legit 6'8, he won't be a good pick unless he makes massive improvements to every area of his game other than passing and running PNR.

Most posters in here are against Trae or similar heliocentric players (rightfully so), but Topic is useless without the ball and a horrible defender.

[Dejounte]

If Topic falls to 8, that’s a steal IMO

[R. DeMurre]

Even if he's legit 6'8, he won't be a good pick unless he makes massive improvements to every area of his game other than passing and running PNR.

Most posters in here are against Trae or similar heliocentric players (rightfully so), but Topic is useless without the ball and a horrible defender.


I think you're neglecting his sky high 2pt%/ability to get to rim, which was one of his best talents on his Serbian Mega MIS team. Granted, it's a small sample size, but if you add in the U18 ANGT games where he tied the all time scoring record of 49 points, I think it points to more than a good passer/PnR guy.

[BackHome]

People say that Topic would make Wemby life harder I have to disagree I think with his ball handling and IQ he could feed Wemby all day. He has the ability to manipulate defenses and then create an easy scoring opportunity for Wemby, and if they overload on Wemby he can easily take it to the rim and score. Yes, he has to work on his shooting but he is almost 90% on FT% so I would bet that he can up his 3 ball..

[CGD]

I found this video on Topic helpful. I think some of the takes in here about him are, at best, stale.

https://youtu.be/KoQwWB583NM?feature=shared

[SpursDynasty85]

If Topic falls to 8, that’s a steal IMO

Agree. Considering he is 18 mitigates some of these injury concerns, he looks like a solid prospect with a high ceiling that has a great chance at falling to 8. Using the no. 4 on Dalton Knect if Risacher is off the board to me makes the most sense for fit and improving as quickly as possible.

[baseline bum]

I hate Topic at 4 but he's a good enough passer with good enough speed to take a HR swing for at 8. Would much rather have Castle at 4 if the team is absolutely dead set on drafting a PG with size.

[baseline bum]

Even if he's legit 6'8, he won't be a good pick unless he makes massive improvements to every area of his game other than passing and running PNR.

Most posters in here are against Trae or similar heliocentric players (rightfully so), but Topic is useless without the ball and a horrible defender.

He's not going to get to the rim in the NBA if he doesn't develop at least an in-between game. Could just guard him like he's Ben Simmons until then.

[Mr. Body]

I found this video on Topic helpful. I think some of the takes in here about him are, at best, stale.

https://youtu.be/KoQwWB583NM?feature=shared

This is a major problem with evaluating Topic. This video hasn't a single clip of Nicola Topic playing. Not a single second. Any clips we have available are fairly old and mostly just him doing the same things over and over -- getting into the rim and getting shots under the rim and around earthbound defenders. Occasionally we have some passes.

That's it. Not to say he can't do anything else, but there's nothing to go on. Sarr and Risacher, the other big foreign prospects, have extensive clips packages, even ones that show misses and bad plays.

Topic? Nothing. He played well, then got hurt forever, then played for a game, then got hurt again. Just don't know what to do with him.

May be reductive, but I keep going back to two things:

1. I either want shooting or defense from my PG-type. Obviously both would be great. With Topic, I get neither.

2. What does Topic do that Tre Jones doesn't already do? He's a good bit taller, of course, but is that height used very much? Tre Jones gets into the lane, he moves the ball, he hits well from the free throw line, he doesn't have much of an outside shot. Is Nicola Topic that much more of a prospect - and improvement over Tre Jones - that you'd sweep aside the other prospects?

I just don't think so at this point.

[SpursDynasty85]

This is a major problem with evaluating Topic. This video hasn't a single clip of Nicola Topic playing. Not a single second. Any clips we have available are fairly old and mostly just him doing the same things over and over -- getting into the rim and getting shots under the rim and around earthbound defenders. Occasionally we have some passes.

That's it. Not to say he can't do anything else, but there's nothing to go on. Sarr and Risacher, the other big foreign prospects, have extensive clips packages, even ones that show misses and bad plays.

Topic? Nothing. He played well, then got hurt forever, then played for a game, then got hurt again. Just don't know what to do with him.

May be reductive, but I keep going back to two things:

1. I either want shooting or defense from my PG-type. Obviously both would be great. With Topic, I get neither.

2. What does Topic do that Tre Jones doesn't already do? He's a good bit taller, of course, but is that height used very much? Tre Jones gets into the lane, he moves the ball, he hits well from the free throw line, he doesn't have much of an outside shot. Is Nicola Topic that much more of a prospect - and improvement over Tre Jones - that you'd sweep aside the other prospects?

I just don't think so at this point.

From the tape I saw, what stood out the most was the fluidity of his handle and penetration. It really is mesmerizing for his height. Can’t think of a player that looked that direct and fluid at that height. There is a reason he has been highly touted before all this unfortunate injury concerns. I can see the Spurs playing off his skill set very well.

[lefty20]

People say that Topic would make Wemby life harder I have to disagree I think with his ball handling and IQ he could feed Wemby all day. He has the ability to manipulate defenses and then create an easy scoring opportunity for Wemby, and if they overload on Wemby he can easily take it to the rim and score. Yes, he has to work on his shooting but he is almost 90% on FT% so I would bet that he can up his 3 ball..

With a 90% ft accuracy, he should be a mid range assassin at the very least.

[exstatic]

Even if he's legit 6'8, he won't be a good pick unless he makes massive improvements to every area of his game other than passing and running PNR.

Most posters in here are against Trae or similar heliocentric players (rightfully so), but Topic is useless without the ball and a horrible defender.

Don’t confuse a team that runs a traditional PG offense with that PG not being able to play off the ball. ALL European players can play without the ball.

[Mr. Body]

Nice post, a few extra tidbits:

- I will take with a huge grain of salt his measurements. He was reportedly measured at 6'6" without shoes, with a 7' wingspan and a 8'2.5" standing reach at a basketball without border camp that happened in Utah in March 2023. These numbers make no sense. You can look at thousands of players measured through the year and you won't find one with that size/wingspan and a standing reach that short. At least one of these 3 numbers is false.
Personally, I don't buy at all the 7' wingspan. His arms don't look that long and it's very unusual for white players to have that kind of wingspan/height ratio.

- Topic has scored 18.6 ppg this season and his scoring breakdown is the following:

10.2 ppg in the paint
0.6 ppg from 2s outside the paint
3.9 ppg from 3's (closer line than in the NBA and with a 28.8 3P%)
3.9 ppg from the free throw line
His offense is coming from the paint and there is a true question mark on whether or it will translate to the NBA. It's a big reason why he isn't higher on mock drafts currently despite all his qualities.
I find that he has a good combination of size, quickness and craftiness to score inside at he NBA level. However, if he can't improve his jumpshot and develop a floater, I fear he will be too predictable to be successful against the more athletic NBA players.

- Topic's dad is a former high level basketball player. I like prospects that are coming from basektball families because it often translates into players that easily coachable and have a high BBIQ.

- It's great that he is leaving Mega to get back to Red Star. It will answer some doubts on his game. Right now, I think Topic is a fine prospect for the Raptors pick (if Spurs get it) but not for the Spurs' one. If he does well in Euroleague/ABA playoffs, he will be a legitimate candidate for Spurs' projected top 6 pick.

Bruno posted this back when.

Gives me pause when so much of his production is coming from the paint. Put together with the clips, where he's blowing by guys who look like Rony Seikaly's much shorter brothers who smoke too much, it's worrisome. Almost all his production seems to come from killing these slow-as-molasses guys who are somehow isolated on him. Then there are no shot blockers. He has a fantastic ft% but doesn't actually draw that many fouls -- 3.2 FTAs per game, which is... ehhh, only so-so for a guy who drives that much?

I have found one scouting report that has managed to get some of his passes together:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nYCL6U-xb6c

Derek Parker is one of my favorite YT commentators. I do think he's grading up a little high on the passing/playmaking and overall feel sections, but he does that sometimes. These do have some really nice looks and finds sprinkled among more bread-and-butter pick and roll stuff that doesn't seem outwardly better than you'd get from the other PG prospects - namely the Kentucky ones, not Castle. None of these, frankly, are different from what I've seen Dillingham do.

More to the point, it appears that he needs to have the ball in his hands to get things going. And then needs to get downhill. There's not a lot of variation here. Isn't this a Josh Giddey, and we've seen the problems with Josh Giddey? And Giddey has more of a mid-range, pacey, variable attack. It's hard not to see a lot of Topic's passes coming from slow defenses that can't cover the basket on rolls in any way.

[rascal]

Topic plays like a WNBA player. Pass

Below the rim layups

[rankingtear]

Don't really see him as a clean fit, but if this guy falls to UTA at 10 where he is projected to go, he could easily be a first team all rookie.

[Maddog]

He's not going to get to the rim in the NBA if he doesn't develop at least an in-between game. Could just guard him like he's Ben Simmons until then.

he shoots over 85% FT and isn't afraid of contact. so there's some reason to be optimistic
On the other hand he hasn't developed an in-between game yet

[exstatic]

he shoots over 85% FT and isn't afraid of contact. so there's some reason to be optimistic
On the other hand he hasn't developed an in-between game yet

He’s eighteen, so not much development yet, and he gets to the rim at will, so why put up a middie?

[R. DeMurre]

In Serbia, Topic got to the rim at will and shot over 65% there two seasons in a row, at ages 17 and 18, dominating the competition.

Spurstalk: Yeah, but where's his DeRozan midrange game?

[R. DeMurre]

Topic plays like a WNBA player. Pass

Below the rim layups

In 70 games and 2624 minutes this season, Luka Doncic had 2 dunks.

https://www.basketball-reference.com/players/d/doncilu01.html

[Mr. Body]

In Serbia, Topic got to the rim at will and shot over 65% there two seasons in a row, at ages 17 and 18, dominating the competition.

Spurstalk: Yeah, but where's his DeRozan midrange game?

I'm not sure why this cannot be a criticism.

[baseline bum]

He’s eighteen, so not much development yet, and he gets to the rim at will, so why put up a middie?

Because he ain't gonna get to the rim easily in the NBA when everyone can back off him like he was Ben Simmons.

[R. DeMurre]

I'm not sure why this cannot be a criticism.

You're right, it certainly can be. But when people seem to go out of the way to ignore his ability to consistently get into the paint at a high rate, and to score at an absurdly high percentage only to point out something like the absence of midrange attempts, I feel like it's a case of looking for flaws over objective analysis. There's probably a pretty good chance that his coaching staff encourages getting to the rim over midrange shots, as it has obviously been a successful strategy the past two seasons.

[baseline bum]

You're right, it certainly can be. But when people seem to go out of the way to ignore his ability to consistently get into the paint at a high rate, and to score at an absurdly high percentage only to point out something like the absence of midrange attempts, I feel like it's a case of looking for flaws over objective analysis. There's probably a pretty good chance that his coaching staff encourages getting to the rim over midrange shots, as it has obviously been a successful strategy the past two seasons.

Didn't work too well once he got to Euroleague and the level of competition improved.

[R. DeMurre]

Didn't work too well once he got to Euroleague and the level of competition improved.

It's a 2 game sample size on a sore knee, so I'm not giving that too much weight. But sure, nothing's guaranteed.

[Mr. Body]

You're right, it certainly can be. But when people seem to go out of the way to ignore his ability to consistently get into the paint at a high rate, and to score at an absurdly high percentage only to point out something like the absence of midrange attempts, I feel like it's a case of looking for flaws over objective analysis. There's probably a pretty good chance that his coaching staff encourages getting to the rim over midrange shots, as it has obviously been a successful strategy the past two seasons.

He definitely can develop a midrange. I guess I'd say he has to develop a jump shot of any kind. This is the problem with what we have to work with. Clips of him blowing by one unathletic guy after another. The optimistic side would say that his competition is so bad that he hasn't had to develop any kind of shot whatsoever. The pessimistic side would say those things don't come automatically and if they never develop, what is he? Killian Hayes without the defense?

[exstatic]

I'm not sure why this cannot be a criticism.

If you finish at 65% at the rim, which you get to with ease, why would you ever put up a 45-50% middie?

[baseline bum]

It's a 2 game sample size on a sore knee, so I'm not giving that too much weight. But sure, nothing's guaranteed.

What sore knee? He injured it in the ABA and not in his second Euroleague game?

[exstatic]

He definitely can develop a midrange. I guess I'd say he has to develop a jump shot of any kind. This is the problem with what we have to work with. Clips of him blowing by one unathletic guy after another. The optimistic side would say that his competition is so bad that he hasn't had to develop any kind of shot whatsoever. The pessimistic side would say those things don't come automatically and if they never develop, what is he? Killian Hayes without the defense?

He’s not blowing by anyone, even in Europe. He uses footwork, chance pf pace, and body control, all things that can be adapted to the NBA game. Both Doncic and SGA use the same techniques, and to good effect.

[baseline bum]

If you finish at 65% at the rim, which you get to with ease, why would you ever put up a 45-50% middie?

Great so Amen and Ausar never need jumpshots because they could get to the rim in OTE?

[baseline bum]

He’s not blowing by anyone, even in Europe. He uses footwork, chance pf pace, and body control, all things that can be adapted to the NBA game. Both Doncic and SGA use the same techniques, and to good effect.

Both Doncic and SGA have diversified offensive games that don't allow you to load up on stopping one thing.

[Mr. Body]

He’s not blowing by anyone, even in Europe. He uses footwork, chance pf pace, and body control, all things that can be adapted to the NBA game. Both Doncic and SGA use the same techniques, and to good effect.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=45OCSlCMVwo&t=275s

Brother, watch the next five to eight possessions starting at 4:48. This defense is just trash. Blow by. Blow by. Blow by. Blow by. Trash. Dillingham scoffs at these defenders.

[R. DeMurre]

He definitely can develop a midrange. I guess I'd say he has to develop a jump shot of any kind. This is the problem with what we have to work with. Clips of him blowing by one unathletic guy after another. The optimistic side would say that his competition is so bad that he hasn't had to develop any kind of shot whatsoever. The pessimistic side would say those things don't come automatically and if they never develop, what is he? Killian Hayes without the defense?


True, and optimism & pessimism can be very fickle emotions. I agree of course that a wide range of outcomes are possible, but I guess i can't help but take notice when multiple people confidently declare Topic a "non-shooter" despite having an elite 87% FT average, but then calmly say "oh, i have faith that Stephon Castle's 3 point shot will come around." Neither one is guaranteed, but some of the takes on them just seem to be "the guy I like is going to improve and the guy i don't like is going to stay the same, even though he's 18."

[baseline bum]

True, and optimism & pessimism can be very fickle emotions. I agree of course that a wide range of outcomes are possible, but I guess i can't help but take notice when multiple people confidently declare Topic a "non-shooter" despite being an elite 87% FT average, but then calmly say "oh, i have faith that Stephon Castle's 3 point shot will come around." Neither one is guaranteed, but some of the takes on them just seem to be "the guy I like is going to improve and the guy i don't like is going to stay the same, even though he's 18."

I think people trust Castle's work ethic more given what a bulldog he is defensively. It's easy to understand why Dillingham is a horrendous defender but not so much for Topic who has the physical tools to be a good defender but isn't.

[exstatic]

Great so Amen and Ausar never need jumpshots because they could get to the rim in OTE?

Europe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>OTE. I’m also not saying that he won’t need one, just that he doesn’t now.

[R. DeMurre]

I think people trust Castle's work ethic more given what a bulldog he is defensively.


Yeah, that's a good point. I love younger players who work on the defensive side without being prodded. For the record, I hope his shooting comes around, but i just don't buy it as a given.

[baseline bum]

Europe >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>OTE. I’m also not saying that he won’t need one, just that he doesn’t now.

Looked like he needed one in Euroleague. Wait now we care again about play in lousy leagues like ABA?

[exstatic]

Looked like he needed one in Euroleague. Wait now we care again about play in lousy leagues like ABA?

It’s unworthy of you to stoop to hysteria like even comparing ABA to OTE. Do better, even if you hate Topic.

[LeBowen]

It’s unworthy of you to stoop to hysteria like even comparing ABA to OTE. Do better, even if you hate Topic.

Topic's team could've had 100% winrate in ABA league if they tried and didn't sit best players.
Meanwhile, they were one of the worst teams in Euroleague.

There's a huge difference between those two leagues.

[exstatic]

Topic's team could've had 100% winrate in ABA league if they tried and didn't sit best players.
Meanwhile, they were one of the worst teams in Euroleague.

There's a huge difference between those two leagues.

There absolutely is a huge difference between the ABA and Overtime Elite.

[LeBowen]

There absolutely is a huge difference between the ABA and Overtime Elite.

I was referring to Euroleague to ABA difference, which is huge.
Maybe not NBA to G-league, but not far off it.

[exstatic]

I was referring to Euroleague to ABA difference, which is huge.
Maybe not NBA to G-league, but not far off it.

You misread the conversation you jumped into. bb was comparing Topic to Ausar and Amen.

[LeBowen]

You misread the conversation you jumped into. bb was comparing Topic to Ausar and Amen.

Somewhat. I was trying to point out that his ABA percentages at the rim aren't as relevant and won't necessarily translate to the NBA.

[baseline bum]

It’s unworthy of you to stoop to hysteria like even comparing ABA to OTE. Do better, even if you hate Topic.

You were lumping in ABA in with with the blanket term Europe like it was some top league. And I don't hate Topic, I'd be willing to take a swing on him at 8 because he has a lot of upside despite not being very good right now. I hate seeing you making Doncic comparisons when Doncic was destroying the same league Topic was putting up 3.5 ppg in.

[duncan2150]

Somewhat. I was trying to point out that his ABA percentages at the rim aren't as relevant and won't necessarily translate to the NBA.Are they really more revelant in NCAA ?

[couchman]

If Topic is healthy he is a top 3 talent in this draft and imo has a higher ceiling than Risacher and Sarr.
Someone might find themselves with a tremendous gift if he has a significant slide.
His game is not built on athleticism, which means what he does well with hesitation, footwork, and change of pace will likely translate, especially with his size and length. He also sees the floor well so it’s easy to see him as someone who regularly breaks down defenses and sets up teammates.
I believe the outside shot will come because his form looks good.
It all comes down to health.

[BackHome]

I remember some people saying no way Topic could be 6'6 because he looked so small watching vids. But he does looks small but he is legit 6'6 and maybe even 6'7 so he is going up against a lot of guys who are 6'9 to 6'11 and scoring at at the rim at a very high percentage.

[JPB]

I've never been high on Topic, and don't even exclude hecould be relevant in the NBA (although I don't personnally believe he will that much) but the thing is I didn't see anything in his game, as a supposed PG, that really striked or wowed me and let me believe he could even just be a starter in this league...

He didn't show particular atheticism, speed, and before you mention Luka, great shooting or any kind of playmaking, creation skills...He didn't really show me anything actually. And spurs happen to badly need playmaking, creation skills. Topic won't get in the NBA the easy, under the rim layups he got in the ABA... Add his suspect defense and I'm not sure about the point of bringing a non playmaking, non shooting, no defense PG.

then, short sample size but his two terrible, pre-injury Eurolague games are not there to comfort me either. Not every eastern euro PG is Luka. We've seen Risacher put up nice stats in 4 games vs. a top 3 euloeague team, we've even seen Nolan Traoré at 17 perform damn well vs. a Euroleague team... We've seen Topic looking like he didn't belong there, like what worked in the ABA didn't at a bigger stage.

[duncan2150]

I've never been high on Topic, and don't even exclude hecould be relevant in the NBA (although I don't personnally believe he will that much) but the thing is I didn't see anything in his game, as a supposed PG, that really striked or wowed me and let me believe he could even just be a starter in this league...He didn't show particular atheticism, speed, and before you mention Luka, great shooting or any kind of playmaking, creation skills...He didn't really show me anything actually. And spurs happen to badly need playmaking, creation skills. Topic won't get in the NBA the easy, under the rim layups he got in the ABA... Add his suspect defense and I'm not sure about the point of bringing a non playmaking, non shooting, no defense PG. then, short sample size but his two terrible, pre-injury Eurolague games are not there to comfort me either. Not every eastern euro PG is Luka. We've seen Risacher put up nice stats in 4 games vs. a top 3 euloeague team, we've even seen Nolan Traoré at 17 perform damn well vs. a Euroleague team... We've seen Topic looking like he didn't belong there, like what worked in the ABA didn't at a bigger stage.Why i can understand some of your takes, i still find it crazy that some refers to topic 2 euroleague games post injury where he played like 15 minutes. Unbeliavable imo.

[TD 21]

Topic isn't Doncic not only in caliber, but physique. He's not going to overpower and bully his way to get to his spots and even the latter needed a mid range pullup.

Every lead ball handler needs to be able to score from all three levels (and make all of the reads) so they can punish every p-n-r coverage.

Also, he's obviously not facing the same caliber of athletes/length in Serbia that he will in the NBA and doesn't have explosive athleticism/speed, so the jury is out on his rim pressure too.

[rascal]

Just draft Nikola Djurisic in the 2nd round

[BackHome]

I am pretty sure he will not be there at 35 but would definitely grab him if he is

[JPB]

Why i can understand some of your takes, i still find it crazy that some refers to topic 2 euroleague games post injury where he played like 15 minutes. Unbeliavable imo.

Not fair from you to put that out of context, specially with incorrect stats and information.

First of all, those 2 games were before, not after injury. And he played 16/game in two games that's 32 minutes in total. Aynway I didn't, nor anybody, entirely based their evaluation on Topic out of these 2 games. That's the reason why I first mentioned the "short sample size" and that those games didn't bring anything, even oh so slightly, to help regarding my initial worries about him.

Those games exist and are an element among others you can't just ignore either. In 2 games; he looked totally lost out there. that's ofc not enough to make definitive judgment about his level of play vs stronger competition, but that still doesn't play in his favor, even oh so slightly... when you have to make a decision, since that's all we got, and you're already not that high on the guy.

Would he haved performed well in those games, that would have played a little in his favor... even oh so slightly.

[exstatic]

Not fair from you to put that out of context, specially with incorrect stats and information.

First of all, those 2 games were before, not after injury. And he played 16/game in two games that's 32 minutes in total. Aynway I didn't, nor anybody, entirely based their evaluation on Topic out of these 2 games. That's the reason why I first mentioned the "short sample size" and that those games didn't bring anything, even oh so slightly, to help regarding my initial worries about him.

Those games exist and are an element among others you can't just ignore either. In 2 games; he looked totally lost out there. that's ofc not enough to make definitive judgment about his level of play vs stronger competition, but that still doesn't play in his favor, even oh so slightly... when you have to make a decision, since that's all we got, and you're already not that high on the guy.

Would he haved performed well in those games, that would have played a little in his favor... even oh so slightly.

Baseline bum has entered the chat.

He rides those two games like a bucking bronco.

[SpursFan86]

1798000205763350883

Not the best of vibes…only way I’m content with getting him is if it’s at #8 and we get a shooter like Sheppard at 4.

[CGD]

Are his measurements in?

[BackHome]

Topic has not talked with the Spurs scouts or managements but has talked with the Spurs medical staff

[rjv]

1798000205763350883

Not the best of vibes…only way I’m content with getting him is if it’s at #8 and we get a shooter like Sheppard at 4.

there's no way he doesn't drop.

[Uriel]

1798000205763350883

Not the best of vibes…only way I’m content with getting him is if it’s at #8 and we get a shooter like Sheppard at 4.
So I guess Bruno was right. This really does undermine his agent’s story that his knee just buckled during that last game and that he was able to recover quickly once he got back to the locker room.

[BatManu20]

Topic is an interesting looking dude tbh. Almost looks like a Bond villain or something.

[Maddog]

Topic is an interesting looking dude tbh. Almost looks like a Bond villain or something.
That should count for something

[Mr. Body]

No, Mr Bond, I expect you to rehab my knee.

[CGD]

Man, i'd feel much better discarding him as a draft candidate if it turns out he was 6'3" with T-Rex arms.

[BatManu20]

Between Timvp's comments and Topic's camp saying that the Spurs haven't reached out to him yet, it's a bit odd to me that PATFO seem to have little-to-no interest in Topic tbh, especially considering he fits our biggest position of need. Can't tell if it's legit or a smoke-screen. He seems like a very Spursy player with his advanced passing ability and overall feel for the game. Shooting can always be improved upon. Even if they don't end up drafting him, you'd think they'd at least show a little more interest. Wonder if they're really just that turned off by the medicals or what (not saying they shouldn't be -- he's missed a ton of time with those knee injuries. Legit concerning). Interesting situation imo.

[Uriel]

Between Timvp's comments and Topic's camp saying that the Spurs haven't reached out to him yet, it's a bit odd to me that PATFO seem to have little-to-no interest in Topic tbh, especially considering he fits our biggest position of need. Can't tell if it's legit or a smoke-screen. He seems like a very Spursy player with his advanced passing ability and overall feel for the game. Shooting can always be improved upon. Even if they don't end up drafting him, you'd think they'd at least show a little more interest. Wonder if they're really just that turned off by the medicals or what (not saying they shouldn't be -- he's missed a ton of time with those knee injuries. Legit concerning). Interesting situation imo.
Totally smoke screen.

[BatManu20]

Totally smoke screen.

That's my gut feeling too. Just seems like the exact type of player PATFO would be fawning over. The injuries are red flag though so you never know.

[exstatic]

If they really had no interest, they wouldn’t have gotten the medicals.

[couchman]

Smoke screen
I’d bet we want him at 8

[BatManu20]

Adding this in here. A 6'6 Goran Dragic would be one of the best players to come out of this draft, if he ever got to that level. The closer we inch towards the draft, the more I think the Spurs are going to seriously consider this kid.


His game is nothing like TP's tbh. TP was small but lightning quick and his game was predicated on floaters and tear drops. Most scouts have compared Topic to a taller version of Goran Dragic, which is a good comp imo. When you watch their tapes, it's easy to see the similarities. Both are excellent passers who excel in PnR. Both really like to get downhill and attack the basket. Both are crafty scorers once they get to the cup. Neither can defend much. Dragic was a considerably better 3-point shooter than Topic is right now, but Dragic also came into the league as a 22 year-old, which makes you hope Topic can get there with time. People tend to forget how good of an offensive player Goran Dragic was though. He made a couple All-Star Games as a Reserve for a reason. Guy could really hoop.

If you could somehow guarantee that Topic would end up being as good as Dragic was then I would take him at 4. Not kidding. The problem is Topic's shooting isn't near Dragic's and there's no guarantee it'll get there (though it may), and those knee injuries are red flags imo. The kid can't seem to stay on the court. Maybe it's just bad luck on his part and he winds up having a long career like Dragic did -- Who knows. But that's the gamble you're taking with him.


1s2YJvXbnU4

8v4hJdAiDio

[Uriel]

Here’s the thing. If RC were still the GM, given his European scouting background, I’m confident Topic would’ve been at or near the top of our big board. But ever since Wright took over, we’ve focused almost exclusively on drafting US college players.

That’s not to say that I don’t think the Spurs are interested. I’m pretty sure they are. But I feel that they still have domestic players like Castle or Dillingham higher on their big board.

[SpursFan86]

I keep going back and forth on this guy :lol At #4, I’d have mixed feelings…but at this point I’m fairly confident he’s going to be the best guy available at #8 so I’d be thrilled if we snagged him there.

[Mugen]

Adding this in here. A 6'6 Goran Dragic would be one of the best players to come out of this draft, if he ever got to that level. The closer we inch towards the draft, the more I think the Spurs are going to seriously consider this kid.

Anybody that doesn't remember how good Dragic was doesn't remember him dragging his nuts across the Spurs during the playoffs tbh :lol

I'd be shocked if Topic ever develops the shot and offensive arsenal that Dragic had. If you guarantee that he would, then he'd be an easy pick at #4.

I was all in on Hot Topic before his 2nd major knee injury. Now, I think he's even way too risky for #8 tbh.

[exstatic]

Anybody that doesn't remember how good Dragic was doesn't remember him dragging his nuts across the Spurs during the playoffs tbh :lol

I'd be shocked if Topic ever develops the shot and offensive arsenal that Dragic had. If you guarantee that he would, then he'd be an easy pick at #4.

I was all in on Hot Topic before his 2nd major knee injury. Now, I think he's even way too risky for #8 tbh.

It’s not a second injury, he tweaked the first one. Even if the MCL requires surgery, the recovery period is 3-6 months, not a year like an ACL. If he got drafted and went under the knife 1 July, he’d be ready sometime between Labor Day and NewYears,with all or most of his rookie season in front of him.

[Mr. Body]

Let's not call him Goran Dragic. Then people will think he's Goran Dragic. He doesn't have any jumpshot at any point on the floor.

[duncan2150]

Between Timvp's comments and Topic's camp saying that the Spurs haven't reached out to him yet, it's a bit odd to me that PATFO seem to have little-to-no interest in Topic tbh, especially considering he fits our biggest position of need. Can't tell if it's legit or a smoke-screen. He seems like a very Spursy player with his advanced passing ability and overall feel for the game. Shooting can always be improved upon. Even if they don't end up drafting him, you'd think they'd at least show a little more interest. Wonder if they're really just that turned off by the medicals or what (not saying they shouldn't be -- he's missed a ton of time with those knee injuries. Legit concerning). Interesting situation imo.I saw that topic talked With spurs doctor.