2025 NBA Draft

[spurraider21]

It's interesting to think about Dallas... they really should just try to sell off anything and everything that isn't Flagg and Lively and try to build around that.
dallas has a veteran roster ready to win now... aside from the whole kyrie torn ACL thing.

you still have AD comfortably playing at an all-nba level. you have legit bigs in Gafford and Lively. really nice role players in PJ Washington and Klay. Naji Marshall/Caleb Martin/Max Christie can all play

and now you add cooper flagg who despite being so young looks pretty damn pro ready already. if they can hang around and kyrie can come back post ASB next year... they can make noise.

[Mr. Body]

I don't think Dallas needs to sell everything. With Flagg, they can trade off one of their bigs and tool around a little. If Kyrie was still around, they could go for a big play, but right now just stay the course more or less.

Problem is I don't think they own many of their draft assets going forward which will be a problem.

[scottspurs]

Do they do measurements on the international guys here or are a lot of them still playing overseas playing?

Curious if Essengue's allegedly 9'3" standing reach is true. Also wanted to see how Penda measures out.

Also, I take basically no stock in shooting drills, but if Yaxel's shot is real he automatically becomes one of the best sleepers in the 20s.

There is a European combine in June. Usually a week or two before the draft

[scott]

dallas has a veteran roster ready to win now... aside from the whole kyrie torn ACL thing.

you still have AD comfortably playing at an all-nba level. you have legit bigs in Gafford and Lively. really nice role players in PJ Washington and Klay. Naji Marshall/Caleb Martin/Max Christie can all play

and now you add cooper flagg who despite being so young looks pretty damn pro ready already. if they can hang around and kyrie can come back post ASB next year... they can make noise.

The problem, from my POV, is that it still won't be enough to be at the top of the conference and then when AD, Kyrie and Klay age out in a few years they have no assets for which to build around Flagg.

[ginobilized]

My man... this is exactly my hope as well (I have Sorber over Fleming though)

I keep going back and forth between Fleming and Sorber. I really like Sorber. Hoping one is still there at 14 if we keep that pick.

[spurraider21]

1922338870391091538

[spurraider21]

1922365266505175520

[BackHome]

Will Sorber be able to work out coming off foot injury?

[vy65]

1922365266505175520

lol Jackie Butler. That takes me back.

[BackHome]

Lol was just about to say the same thing.

[CGD]

lol Jackie Butler. That takes me back.

With Queen, once someone made the comp to Sullinger I was absolutely out.

[John B]

Will Sorber be able to work out coming off foot injury?

I rather he not and slips to 14

[Obstructed_View]

lol Jackie Butler. That takes me back.
Yeah I get PTSD flashbacks from that name.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1922478313194258511

[cutewizard]

Guys, did you read that news about Flagg?

Is that legit??

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/WLoF23xgnHQ?si=I4w5cBc7uiKSbfm3

[Ice009]

Guys, did you read that news about Flagg?

Is that legit??

What news? Why not tell us what you're talking about.

[exstatic]

Guys, did you read that news about Flagg?

Is that legit??
You can’t just drop something like that without context. What news?

[exstatic]

cw, YouTube is not news.

[Ice009]

Oh, wow, a Youtube video. I should have guessed. Made me think he was having doubts about going to Dallas or something :(.

[Mr. Body]

That 'news' was fuckin' Rich Paul, who ain't the GM anyway.

[exstatic]

That 'news' was fuckin' Rich Paul, who ain't the GM anyway.

Rich Paul has undercut or end arounded a number of GMs.

[BackHome]

Danny Wolf had a good 3 point night he was 6th best of ALL players in set 3

[Mr. Body]

Rich Paul has undercut or end arounded a number of GMs.

Yeah, but he doesn't get to decide whether a team drafts a player or not.

[exstatic]

Yeah, but he doesn't get to decide whether a team drafts a player or not.

He can absolutely force a trade.

[Mr. Body]

He can absolutely force a trade.

He isn't even Cooper Flagg's agent. :rollin

[scott]

Drake Powell with a 43" max vert, a whole 3.5 inches higher than the next best (Carter Bryant).

He put up some huge testing numbers at the combine. I liked him as a flyer at #38 even before this. He might not make it there, but he's on my radar.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Drake Powell with a 43" max vert, a whole 3.5 inches higher than the next best (Carter Bryant).

He put up some huge testing numbers at the combine. I liked him as a flyer at #38 even before this. He might not make it there, but he's on my radar.

I’ve really liked Powell all season long because of his tools. He was hidden behind upperclassmen in the rotation often and was mostly relegated to being in the corner but he’s a very good physical defender who can hit shots and possibly maybe hopefully has more unlocked on ball potential as well.

He’s probably a year away though and I’m not sure he can play the 3 which would limit his upside a bit. Don’t think he lasts to 38 after the combine.

[Chillen]

If Flagg does not want to play for Dallas and prefers Spurs yes he can force a trade. However he will literally get booed every time he plays in Dallas the rest of his career. He should just play for Dallas those fans don't need anymore disappointment.

[John B]

Danny Wolf had a good 3 point night he was 6th best of ALL players in set 3

Ma man

[Vienna]

I’ve really liked Powell all season long because of his tools. He was hidden behind upperclassmen in the rotation often and was mostly relegated to being in the corner but he’s a very good physical defender who can hit shots and possibly maybe hopefully has more unlocked on ball potential as well.

He’s probably a year away though and I’m not sure he can play the 3 which would limit his upside a bit. Don’t think he lasts to 38 after the combine.

Powell measured almost identical to another UNC guy we know pretty well: Danny Green.
Powell: 6'5.25" w/o shoes, 7'0" wingspan, 8'7" standing reach, 200 lbs
Green: 6'5.25" w/o shoes, 6'10" wingspan, 8'7" standing reach, 208 lbs

Powell is the much much better athlete. (standing vertical was reported at 37.5", also some of the best numbers ever)
so yes, Powell can play the 3, he can easily put on some more weight, if he ends up like 210-215 he will do fine as a SF.
scouts see him as a prototypical wing stopper and his numbers all indicate he can become a good 3&D guy in the NBA.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Powell measured almost identical to another UNC guy we know pretty well: Danny Green.
Powell: 6'5.25" w/o shoes, 7'0" wingspan, 8'7" standing reach, 200 lbs
Green: 6'5.25" w/o shoes, 6'10" wingspan, 8'7" standing reach, 208 lbs

Powell is the much much better athlete. (standing vertical was reported at 37.5", also some of the best numbers ever)
so yes, Powell can play the 3, he can easily put on some more weight, if he ends up like 210-215 he will do fine as a SF.
scouts see him as a prototypical wing stopper and his numbers all indicate he can become a good 3&D guy in the NBA.

Yeah you’re right. For some reason I thought he measured an inch shorter.

I don’t think guys who measure about 6’5 or 6’6 barefoot would have any issues playing the 3 in the NBA. Not many 3s are taller, it’s just that players were reported with their height in shoes in the past. The thing is for them to be long and strong, like JDub or Jaylen Brown. For that same reason I see no problem at all for Castle to play as a 3 long term.

[Vienna]

Do they do measurements on the international guys here or are a lot of them still playing overseas playing?

Curious if Essengue's allegedly 9'3" standing reach is true. Also wanted to see how Penda measures out.

Also, I take basically no stock in shooting drills, but if Yaxel's shot is real he automatically becomes one of the best sleepers in the 20s.

the numbers come from the NBA basketball without borders combine 2024, so the number should be legit. (was even 9'3.5")

[Vienna]

Yeah you’re right. For some reason I thought he measured an inch shorter.

I don’t think guys who measure about 6’5 or 6’6 barefoot would have any issues playing the 3 in the NBA. Not many 3s are taller, it’s just that players were reported with their height in shoes in the past. The thing is for them to be long and strong, like JDub or Jaylen Brown. For that same reason I see no problem at all for Castle to play as a 3 long term.

totally agree. people forget that Kawhi isn't that tall as well. 6'6" barefoot. but he has the crazy wingspan (7'3") and he is strong, so he can defend 4s as well.
looking at this draft, Powell and Coward more or less will fall in that category, just considering the physical profile.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

totally agree. people forget that Kawhi isn't that tall as well. 6'6" barefoot. but he has the crazy wingspan (7'3") and he is strong, so he can defend 4s as well.
looking at this draft, Powell and Coward more or less will fall in that category, just considering the physical profile.

Coward has shot up draft boards after the combine for sure. He has a weird history, playing in small schools, then being injured for most of last season but his efficiency numbers are off the charts in every aspect and he has the tools to match. No idea how to evaluate him on 6 games. Could be the next JDub, could be Ousmane Dieng.

[Vienna]

Coward has shot up draft boards after the combine for sure. He has a weird history, playing in small schools, then being injured for most of last season but his efficiency numbers are off the charts in every aspect and he has the tools to match. No idea how to evaluate him on 6 games. Could be the next JDub, could be Ousmane Dieng.

yes, it's all about projections. but some teams will put it that way: what if he had played the whole season and continued with what he did the two games before he hurt his shoulder? he might have delivered a season that dominant, that he would have been a 1st round, or even lottery prospect from, let's say, January.
but on top of that, he will do great great interviews. he is a very mature, very humble, very confident personality, gives well thought out and analytic answers. seems like a natural born leader and hard worker.

some interesting points in this interview. he started playing football, grew late, switched to basketball. so that might explain somehow, why he didn't come out highly recruited and had to take the longer route to the NBA.

wtch the interview: Cedric Coward on Journey From D3 to 1st Round NBA Draft Pick | Full Interview - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aslz_D5PknM)

and that's a nice comparison: Player Comparison | Tankathon (https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=cedric-coward--jalen-williams)
Coward is pretty much the Jalen Williams from this years draft.

[Mal]

Why would they be intertested in White while drafting Harper?

Because he is a good player, and running 3 guards rotation will be the thing. If there is an option to get him, move Vassell and #14 and couple SRPs. Celtics would save a lot money in taxes over 4 years.

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/YGiqMqdXZZA?si=J7AzZ4s-XZ75mzY-

[exstatic]

He isn't even Cooper Flagg's agent. :rollin

I didn’t say he was. You do know how Fox got here, right?

[scottspurs]

Why does NBA.com suck so bad at posting the measurements and athletic testing for the combine. NFL posts that stuff immediately. I know last year they had to take it down because they incorrectly posted Castle as 6’2 without shoes. Are they writing all these measurements down on paper and then plugging them in. Pathetic lol Be better

[Truckules]

As someone who believes in Fleming's shot eventually translating, he was fairly disappointing in the shooting drills. Spot-up 3pt was okay (16/25) but off-dribble 2pt (15/30) and 3pt star (9/25) were disappointing. It's low sample size so it's not a huge factor but definitely points to him being a stationary shooter which is not an archetype I value. You're really drafting him based on defense and potential, and it's hard for me to consider that at 14 given some of the other combine results. Specifically, Yaxel Lendeborg and Cedric Coward warrant a closer look.

[CGD]

As someone who believes in Fleming's shot eventually translating, he was fairly disappointing in the shooting drills. Spot-up 3pt was okay (16/25) but off-dribble 2pt (15/30) and 3pt star (9/25) were disappointing. It's low sample size so it's not a huge factor but definitely points to him being a stationary shooter which is not an archetype I value. You're really drafting him based on defense and potential, and it's hard for me to consider that at 14 given some of the other combine results. Specifically, Yaxel Lendeborg and Cedric Coward warrant a closer look.

Some sanity. People are getting a little outta control on Fleming.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

As someone who believes in Fleming's shot eventually translating, he was fairly disappointing in the shooting drills. Spot-up 3pt was okay (16/25) but off-dribble 2pt (15/30) and 3pt star (9/25) were disappointing. It's low sample size so it's not a huge factor but definitely points to him being a stationary shooter which is not an archetype I value. You're really drafting him based on defense and potential, and it's hard for me to consider that at 14 given some of the other combine results. Specifically, Yaxel Lendeborg and Cedric Coward warrant a closer look.

Good news that Fleming didn't shoot well at the Combine.

Otherwise he would rise to top 10 and out of reach for us.

[Mr. Body]

I didn’t say he was. You do know how Fox got here, right?

Because his agent is Rich Paul?

[Mr. Body]

As someone who believes in Fleming's shot eventually translating, he was fairly disappointing in the shooting drills. Spot-up 3pt was okay (16/25) but off-dribble 2pt (15/30) and 3pt star (9/25) were disappointing. It's low sample size so it's not a huge factor but definitely points to him being a stationary shooter which is not an archetype I value. You're really drafting him based on defense and potential, and it's hard for me to consider that at 14 given some of the other combine results. Specifically, Yaxel Lendeborg and Cedric Coward warrant a closer look.

Being a movement shooter is extremely difficult. I wouldn't put too much stock in those drills anyway. They don't matter much - we've seen them play.

[stnick2261]

I would rather keep our positional size advantage and not have Fox/Castle/Harper play SF. We tend to lose games with our backups in, so it's would make most sense to just rotate those 3 players to keep 2 of the 3 on the court at all times. Then we just need size, shooting, defense and rebounding at the forward positions. If Castle and Sochan can improve their shot it really rounds out a solid team.

(rough minutes)

PG/SG Fox (32) / Castle (32) / Harper (32)
SF Sochan* (32) / Champ (16)
PF Barnes (32) / Fleming (16)
C Wemby (32) / 2nd Round Pick (16)

*If Sochan becomes a legit 3pt threat, I have him starting as a POA defender and crashing the boards.

This also frees up Vassell and Keldon for trade (either a veteran PF/C or move up to draft a better PF/C than I have listed - like Danny Wolf, Yaxel Lendeborg or Johni Broome).

[Obstructed_View]

They were a mid major program with nothing else real on the roster.
They are in the Big Ten (finished 11th). They lost to Kennesaw State which is probably a mid major.

[Obstructed_View]

Why does NBA.com suck so bad at posting the measurements and athletic testing for the combine. NFL posts that stuff immediately. I know last year they had to take it down because they incorrectly posted Castle as 6’2 without shoes. Are they writing all these measurements down on paper and then plugging them in. Pathetic lol Be better
The NBA is so unprofessional it's frightening.

[BacktoBasics]

https://youtu.be/YGiqMqdXZZA?si=J7AzZ4s-XZ75mzY-

The people who suggest that the Bucks can get both Castle and the number 2 pick, plus fillers and additional draft picks are seriously fucking retarded. I would disown this franchise if they gave all that up for a 3-4 year rental.

[CorrectCrusader]

The people who suggest that the Bucks can get both Castle and the number 2 pick, plus fillers and additional draft picks are seriously fucking retarded. I would disown this franchise if they gave all that up for a 3-4 year rental.

Yeah it's silly, Bucks have zero leverage.

[itzsoweezee]

The people who suggest that the Bucks can get both Castle and the number 2 pick, plus fillers and additional draft picks are seriously fucking retarded. I would disown this franchise if they gave all that up for a 3-4 year rental.

This guy also had absurd proposals for the Fox trade. He’s a draft guy and is frequently off base on roster management

[BacktoBasics]

Yeah it's silly, Bucks have zero leverage.

I think they have some leverage. Especially across the board when looking at teams that are primed to make a move. I just don't think its the right time for us to unload the truckload of assets we have. We have so much going for us. The Fox trade proves that we can grow organically and still make prudent/meaningful trades without completely compromising our future.

Bucks fans just saw how easily the whole house crumbles when you go all in on that final end of career player in Dame. They got nothing going forward, but expect teams to give up half their rotation and entire future draft stock for one player on his final act. Its nuts.

[spurraider21]

He can absolutely force a trade.
he can force the trade involving no players that he represents?

[scottspurs]

I’ve been thinking about pick 14 more than pick 2 now and want to do a deeper look at fits now that it looks like the Spurs will be guard heavy. Went back and watched Carter Bryant vs Duke. It was not pretty lol. Every time he was in the game they put him on Cooper Flagg and he was absolutely destroyed. Twice he got cooked and the Arizona coach had to call a timeout. Flagg actually struggled when they put a smaller player on him. They basically had to bench Bryant. Flagg ended up with 24 but probably goes for 40 if Bryant guards him the entire game. I know Flagg is the best player in the draft but this is the level of player Bryant would be asked to guard at the next level. Kind of comes across as more of an athlete than a basketball player.

[spurraider21]

castle shot 18/25 in the combine 3 point shooting drill. i care less about the drills other than getting a closer look at forms. where is the release point, how slow is the release, are they getting legs involved, etc. im not a shot doctor but i imagine the teams can make something of this stuff.

from the combine i really just care about the measurables

[scottspurs]

On the ESPN broadcast they just said Maxime Raynaud plays Chess daily with Victor Wembanyama. Mitch Johnson went to Stanford. Hmmmmm :wakeup

[LeBowen]

https://nbadraft.theringer.com/

Updated with mock draft.

[Russ]

On the ESPN broadcast they just said Maxime Raynaud plays Chess daily with Victor Wembanyama. Mitch Johnson went to Stanford. Hmmmmm :wakeup

Raynaud was the star of the Combine scrimmages.

A bit gangly but very big and very polished offensively.

[pRoshi]

Everything ive seen on Cedrick Coward screams Spurs picks to me. He has all the measurables plus a level head considering his journey here. Derrick white type story that the Spurs FO loves to take chances on.

[CGD]

Good news that Fleming didn't shoot well at the Combine.

Otherwise he would rise to top 10 and out of reach for us.

Or maybe he’s just not that good?

[Mr. Body]

Or maybe he’s just not that good?

You're not allowed to say that here!

[CGD]

https://nbadraft.theringer.com/

Updated with mock draft.

Interesting. I think this is pretty spot on.

Bryant appears to be out of range, while Coward is rising into our area. Surprise Jase didnt drop more, but thought Fears was appropriately adjusted down. Fleming continues to be an end of first round guy.

[baseline bum]

Looks better than Sochan though, tbh

prevert!

[baseline bum]

Everything ive seen on Cedrick Coward screams Spurs picks to me. He has all the measurables plus a level head considering his journey here. Derrick white type story that the Spurs FO loves to take chances on.

Didn't he kill it at shooting drills yesterday?

[BackHome]

Yeah, he did better then Tre who is moving into top 5 of draft based on measurements and skills numbers

[pRoshi]

For sure, he was top ten in mid-range and 3pt shooting drills. If he didn't get hurt at the beginning of the season, I believe he would have easily been talked about as a lottery pick.

[SpursBills]

Coward's a career 84% FT and 38% 3 point shooter with > 50(!)% on midrange over the last 3 years. He's got a very high chance of shooting in the league. I don't know anything else about him though having never watched him - how's his defense outside of his measurements?

[pRoshi]

His defense is what he thrives on, probably the best thing about him honestly.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1922831302090232201

[scottspurs]

Coward's a career 84% FT and 38% 3 point shooter with > 50(!)% on midrange over the last 3 years. He's got a very high chance of shooting in the league. I don't know anything else about him though having never watched him - how's his defense outside of his measurements?


I wrote this after I watched all his games -

Very tough on defense. Decent foot speed but uses his strength and long arms to disrupt. 1.7 blocks per game as a guard. Shows a lot of competitiveness even when being beat off the dribble. Excellent post defense for a guard. Hold his ground against much bigger opponents. Looks to have very strong lower body strength. Very switchable but also great at fighting through screens. Great rebounding for a guard with 7 per game

[scottspurs]

Just listened to 76ers GM Daryl Morey interview. He is very matter of fact when he does interviews and he said they are super happy with the 3rd pick. Says it’s a 7 maybe an 8 player draft. Best draft since his very 1st draft as a GM in 2003 (LeBron draft)

[Snaq O'Meal]

I wrote this after I watched all his games -

Very tough on defense. Decent foot speed but uses his strength and long arms to disrupt. 1.7 blocks per game as a guard. Shows a lot of competitiveness even when being beat off the dribble. Excellent post defense for a guard. Hold his ground against much bigger opponents. Looks to have very strong lower body strength. Very switchable but also great at fighting through screens. Great rebounding for a guard with 7 per game

Sounds just like a certain nephew.

[mystargtr34]

I’m warming up to Cedric Coward. Need to watch some more tape but seems like he will make a good 3nD role player who can guard bigger wings.

Not buying his jersey though if Spurs draft him.

[John B]

https://nbadraft.theringer.com/

Updated with mock draft.

Danny Wolf moving up to 11. If ever all 5 guys who can pass would be wild. Just a thought.

And Goldin 7 barefoot and 9’4 standing reach. It’s not a bad backup C at 2nd round pick.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923087233365704732

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Yeah Coward looks like an NBA player. I’m all in on the mystery box dude at 14. Take a swing.

[RC_Drunkford]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923087233365704732

this guy is top 10 in damn near every drill

[Seventyniner]

this guy is top 10 in damn near every drill

I don't think he's going to last to #14. There are always at least a couple of players who risk up the ranks quickly once the draft starts getting closer, and Coward is looking like another one of those.

[Mr. Body]

Coward's age will push him out of the lottery. He's likely a finished product and teams are looking for upside at that point still.

[CGD]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923087233365704732

This is the way

[CGD]

Coward's age will push him out of the lottery. He's likely a finished product and teams are looking for upside at that point still.

I generally agree with you, but I think NIL is messing things up this year in ways we haven’t seen. I’m wondering if at this range we do start seeing the upper class men go, as opposed to later which was more common before.

[Atl Spur]

Hopefully Egor D. drops to 14.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1923103671048372273

[RC_Drunkford]

would love Raynauld as a back up C, but he's now mocked in the early 20s

[exstatic]

I generally agree with you, but I think NIL is messing things up this year in ways we haven’t seen. I’m wondering if at this range we do start seeing the upper class men go, as opposed to later which was more common before.

The last older player drafted in the lottery that I remember was Chris Duarte. He never saw year 4, and that was after a damn good rookie season.

[objective]

https://x.com/JeffGSpursZone/status/1923103671048372273

Too bad Ingram is a just a guy who had no business being drafted. I hope they didn't waste a 2nd for a Mitch feel good

[objective]

The last older player drafted in the lottery that I remember was Chris Duarte. He never saw year 4, and that was after a damn good rookie season.

Keegan Murray was close to the same draft age, maybe 1 month older, and he went #4

[objective]

At least there are some interesting guys that could slide to 14

Hopefully at least 1 of these guys slips:

Wolf
Fleming
Step-Nephew Coward
Bryant
Queen

I'm worried they'll all get picked and Spurs will have to pick at the likes of Newell or Richardson or Essengue or McNeely

[spurraider21]

The last older player drafted in the lottery that I remember was Chris Duarte. He never saw year 4, and that was after a damn good rookie season.
Edey was 22. Jordan Hawkins was 21. dno what the cutoff is for older.

[Bruno]

I don't like Raynaud for Spurs as backup C.

Spurs backup C should be a good shotblocker. If he isn't, like Zollins in the past, Spurs will have to change their whole defensive philosophy as soon as Wembanyama goes to the bench to stay effective defensively. I doubt a team that young will be great at that.

[RC_Drunkford]

I don't like Raynaud for Spurs as backup C.

Spurs backup C should be a good shotblocker. If he isn't, like Zollins in the past, Spurs will have to change their whole defensive philosophy as soon as Wembanyama goes to the bench to stay effective defensively. I doubt a team that young will be great at that.

is he not a good rim protector at 7 feet? I wouldn’t mind Kalkbrenner either although Sorber if he’s there at 14 seems like the best bet

[exstatic]

Edey was 22. Jordan Hawkins was 21. dno what the cutoff is for older.

Usually 22 is over the limit. That’s the point where the majority underperform their draft slots. There’s a good article on it in the Knecht thread.

Edey was held out in 4th quarters, and was played off the floor in the playoffs. He can’t leverage his strengths very often because he’s hunted on defense by being repeatedly put into pick and rolls.

[rjv]

it was painful watching Edey get cooked in the playoffs.

[Trueblood]

Edey was 22. Jordan Hawkins was 21. dno what the cutoff is for older.

True, but these are exceptions that prove the rule. There was a statistic I saw recently that did an age/growth comparison and what it showed was that the older a prospect was coming in the less potential they have for growth. When you get a 4 year player it's a blessing and a curse. You are getting a known commodity which is great, but they have a flatline growth projection and their numbers will rarely surpass what they did in their final year of college. They are the definition of high floor/low ceiling prospect.

[exstatic]

it was painful watching Edey get cooked in the playoffs.

…but inevitable. Team’s just didn’t care early on, because November, December. Even in the early part on the year, Memphis had to pull him late in games. He’s really a role player, a change of pace.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923011736455545133

[ace3g]

Scrimmage 1

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gq7-naLWIAAIRsO?format=png&name=small

Scrimmage 2

https://pbs.twimg.com/media/Gq8Uh9SXUAEarR9?format=jpg&name=medium

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1922992134472233092

[Knoxxx]

Shooting option in round 2:

https://www.si.com/college/nebraska/basketball/nebrasketball-brice-williams-impresses-at-nba-draft-combine-cornhuskers-big-ten

[Knoxxx]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1922992134472233092

Da big kid got some skillz!

[spurraider21]

yaxel will be 23 when the season starts, so he's definitely on the older side

[Snaq O'Meal]

yaxel will be 23 when the season starts, so he's definitely on the older side

Yet he kept improving year on year. He's nowhere near his peak yet.

[John B]

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJry0FVSE3C/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Danny Wolf lighting it up

[scottspurs]

I was listening to Yaxel’s story from Givony and it’s interesting. Was a very lazy teenager that would play video games 18 hours a day! His mom forced him to go outside and he started playing basketball for the first time. Only played in 11 varsity games before heading to college. So he is definitely a late bloomer who could get better and better despite his age.

[Guru of Nothing]

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJry0FVSE3C/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ==

Danny Wolf lighting it up

That stroke looks sweet.

[Mr. Body]

I was listening to Yaxel’s story from Givony and it’s interesting. Was a very lazy teenager that would play video games 18 hours a day! His mom forced him to go outside and he started playing basketball for the first time. Only played in 11 varsity games before heading to college. So he is definitely a late bloomer who could get better and better despite his age.

He and DeAndre Ayton can play video games together!

[John B]

That stroke looks sweet.

Danny Wolf was forced to play facilitator overnight which caused all his turnovers early in the season, but slowly curtailed them. He has the size of a true big man, 6-foot-10.5 barefoot, weighs 251.8 pounds and has a wingspan of 7-foot-2.25 inches and a standing reach of 9-foot-1 inches, was among the leaders in rebounds. He can block, facilitate and now it shows he has sweet strokes. His physicality is suspect but an NBA strength trainer can help. The best part is he’s a very smart player. Imagine 5 players on the court who all could dribble and pass.

[scottspurs]

I’m watching Noah Penda right now and he is so good. He is very decisive and processes the game very quickly! Gives off Draymond Green vibes. He already has a NBA body at 20 years old. Only shoots 30% from three but the form doesn’t look to bad. More of a strength and nimble athlete than a vertical one. Really awesome defender that shows high IQ despite not being super quick footed. Still needs some work on his handle but he does have some advanced moves. Dude will overall power people offensively kind of like Keldon Johnson but maybe taller and could get potentially bigger. Not sure how he fits on the Spurs but he will be a good nba player

[exstatic]

I’m watching Noah Penda right now and he is so good. He is very decisive and processes the game very quickly! Gives off Draymond Green vibes. He already has a NBA body at 20 years old. Only shoots 30% from three but the form doesn’t look to bad. More of a strength and nimble athlete than a vertical one. Really awesome defender that shows high IQ despite not being super quick footed. Still needs some work on his handle but he does have some advanced moves. Dude will overall power people offensively kind of like Keldon Johnson but maybe taller and could get potentially bigger. Not sure how he fits on the Spurs but he will be a good nba player

Poor shooting signal at 69% FTs. That’s where you look for shooting form and repeatability.

[John B]

I’m watching Noah Penda right now and he is so good. He is very decisive and processes the game very quickly! Gives off Draymond Green vibes. He already has a NBA body at 20 years old. Only shoots 30% from three but the form doesn’t look to bad. More of a strength and nimble athlete than a vertical one. Really awesome defender that shows high IQ despite not being super quick footed. Still needs some work on his handle but he does have some advanced moves. Dude will overall power people offensively kind of like Keldon Johnson but maybe taller and could get potentially bigger. Not sure how he fits on the Spurs but he will be a good nba player

Please no more Draymond Green vibes who cannot shoot. We already have Sochan.

[scottspurs]

Please no more Draymond Green vibes who cannot shoot. We already have Sochan.
That’s why I said I don’t know how he fits with the spurs. I think he fit somewhere though. The only non shooters I think the Spurs can afford to draft are the Centers

[Bruno]

is he not a good rim protector at 7 feet?

Raynaud isn't a good paint defensive presence. He needs to get stronger and to play more physical.

[scott]

For the first time I might be warming up to the idea of Danny Wolf... not too sure about at 14 though...

[benefactor]

For the first time I might be warming up to the idea of Danny Wolf... not too sure about at 14 though...
There is a chance Pop squints real hard and sees Matt Bonner. Red Mamba 2.0?

[John B]

For the first time I might be warming up to the idea of Danny Wolf... not too sure about at 14 though...

I’d play Danny Wolf now over Sochan tbh

[RC_Drunkford]

For the first time I might be warming up to the idea of Danny Wolf... not too sure about at 14 though...

I still don't like him that much. Apparently has a very very slow release on his shot in the combine and I still question the defense.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/Sam_Vecenie/status/1923367698567708797

[Guru of Nothing]

Theoretically, Danny Wolf is the ideal pick.

A big, smart guy who can play any position on the floor; his passing chops are impressive; three-point shooting is not a concern (but TBD, of course), and he's got a year under his belt playing in a 2-big lineup alongside Vladislav Goldin - and there might be a little bit of synergy to tap were the Spurs to also draft Goldin with the #38.

... Seriously doubt the Spurs select three rookies in this year's draft, however, fun to think about.

[Seventyniner]

That Vecenie article is well worth reading. Do the quick Ctrl+A then Ctrl+C to copy the text before the paywall loads and paste it somewhere.

A teaser:


“If the Spurs paired Giannis and Wemby, they would be the favorite to win the title next year,” said one Eastern Conference executive, who was granted anonymity in exchange for his candor. “They’d have two guys who might be top-five players in the league next year on the same team. Plus, they fit. They’d have a dominant defense that no one would be able to score against inside, and they’d have the ability to play five-out in an even more devastating way than the Bucks did with Brook Lopez if they surrounded Giannis and Wemby with the right wings.”

[cutewizard]

On the ESPN broadcast they just said Maxime Raynaud plays Chess daily with Victor Wembanyama. Mitch Johnson went to Stanford. Hmmmmm :wakeup

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

Bingo! Now, we get Steven Adams as his mentor, and we call it a draft.

[LeBowen]

That Vecenie article is well worth reading. Do the quick Ctrl+A then Ctrl+C to copy the text before the paywall loads and paste it somewhere.

Just run it through the archive machine, works for most relevant paywall sites.
https://web.archive.org/web/20250516133238/https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6355117/2025/05/16/nba-draft-2025-intel-spurs-sixers-bucks/?source=emp_shared_article

[scottspurs]

Just run it through the archive machine, works for most relevant paywall sites.
https://web.archive.org/web/20250516133238/https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6355117/2025/05/16/nba-draft-2025-intel-spurs-sixers-bucks/?source=emp_shared_article


Great article! Does a great job of breaking it down. I think the Spurs would be more likely to trade for a Giannis during the trade deadline or next offseason. Once they know what they have in Harper and see Castle’s development. See how Fox fits with the youngsters. Hopefully the Bucks hold off on any decisions this offseason. Maybe that Hawks pick swap starts looking real enticing come February. Maybe you won’t even have to add Castle or Harper at that point. No reason for the Bucks to rush to a decision when Giannis hasn’t even requested a trade.

He also makes a good point about the point guards falling in this draft. Spurs might be able to trade back for a team hungry for a lead guard at pick 14. Pick up future assets and Draft their guy Maxime Raynaud in the 20’s.

[Vienna]

That Vecenie article is well worth reading. Do the quick Ctrl+A then Ctrl+C to copy the text before the paywall loads and paste it somewhere.

A teaser:

Vecenie is totally obsessed with the idea of the Giannis to SA trade. of course he has some valid points, but he ignores some major questions.

what would this do to Wemby and his role with the franchise? Giannis does not come in to play 2nd fiddle with the Spurs. not on the court, not in the locker room, not off the court.
Giannis is not Robinson. keep that in mind.
IMO the crucial moment of the Spurs future isn't when they win the next title. it's the 1st extension of Wemby's contract.
we assume that he is a super pro and only about winning. maybe he is.
but what route would he prefer? the organc development of a core of talented players of his age group, that is focused on him and his needs? or the blockbuster that turns the franchise upside down over night?
I'm not so sure, he prefers the latter.

[CGD]

Theoretically, Danny Wolf is the ideal pick.

A big, smart guy who can play any position on the floor; his passing chops are impressive; three-point shooting is not a concern (but TBD, of course), and he's got a year under his belt playing in a 2-big lineup alongside Vladislav Goldin - and there might be a little bit of synergy to tap were the Spurs to also draft Goldin with the #38.

... Seriously doubt the Spurs select three rookies in this year's draft, however, fun to think about.

at #38, why not?

He really sucks at 14.

[exstatic]

Not really, drafting a wing in bailey make more sense with current roster. And besides it will send either vassel or scohan to the bench. Drafting harper doesnt make sense with fox and castle already in the lineup unless we trade the pick/ harper later on.

You can get a wing in FA. Makes no sense to draft a lesser player at #2.

[Bruno]

I’m watching Noah Penda right now and he is so good. He is very decisive and processes the game very quickly! Gives off Draymond Green vibes. He already has a NBA body at 20 years old. Only shoots 30% from three but the form doesn’t look to bad. More of a strength and nimble athlete than a vertical one. Really awesome defender that shows high IQ despite not being super quick footed. Still needs some work on his handle but he does have some advanced moves. Dude will overall power people offensively kind of like Keldon Johnson but maybe taller and could get potentially bigger. Not sure how he fits on the Spurs but he will be a good nba player

BTW, these are his measurements taken earlier this year in an event organized by french league:
https://x.com/SymbioseBB/status/1881419539185115144

[Extra Stout]

You don’t pass up a player of Harper’s caliber just because the fit isn’t perfect. This is exactly the same discussion that was had back in 1997, when there seriously were advocates for drafting Keith Van Horn #1 or trading the pick. Harper isn’t going to be Tim Duncan, but he very well could be a James Harden or a Dwyane Wade.

[SpursBills]

If Sorber's not there at 14, I want a trade down with Brooklyn and Yaxel with one of the two late first rounders. I was previously very high on CMB and still am, but his drive game and advantage creation is going to be completely redundant with Harper on the team as opposed to, say, if the spurs had drafted Kon or Tre Johnson.

Yaxel's such an obvious parallel for a Pascal Siakam-type developmental trajectory that I'm surprised this isn't more mainstream. Dude didn't even start playing organized basketball until senior year of high school and the amount he's improved in 4 years is pretty crazy - I don't think the standard age concerns necessarily apply to him given his late entry into organized basketball.

With regards to team needs:
Size - 6'10" in shoes with a 7'4" wingspan
Physicality - 12%/26% OREB/DREB%, better than most centers and pretty much every forward; career 50% FTR at UAB
Defense - 5.1/2.8 BLK%/STL%, translating to ability to protect the rim and guard the perimeter; AAC DPOY his junior year, and senior year transitioned from guarding post-ups to iso's and on the perimeter
Shooting - 78% FT and 35% on 3s on medium volume
Connective passing - 4.2 assists per game on almost 2 AST:TO

In short, this is exactly the type of guy you want next to Wemby if he develops properly, but is getting severely overlooked because of his age. He is physically big and more importantly, he plays like a big who can give you physicality, high energy, and rebounding. His outside shot and shooting indicators suggest he has outs to become a good shooter for a big. I would rather have a big who can shoot next to Wemby than a wing who can rebound, and this guy gives you that. More importantly, his passing vision and basketball IQ means that you can potentially have connectivity at all 5 positions, juicing your offense. I think he's getting highly underrated for what he brings and can bring to the table.

https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=yaxel-lendeborg--pascal-siakam

[onechance87]

Theoretically, Danny Wolf is the ideal pick.

A big, smart guy who can play any position on the floor; his passing chops are impressive; three-point shooting is not a concern (but TBD, of course), and he's got a year under his belt playing in a 2-big lineup alongside Vladislav Goldin - and there might be a little bit of synergy to tap were the Spurs to also draft Goldin with the #38.

... Seriously doubt the Spurs select three rookies in this year's draft, however, fun to think about.

There should be no doubt bringing in three rookies in.They should be replacing guys like wesley,branham,bassey and mamu and
maybe even sochan.

[cutewizard]

So many possibilities

[BatManu20]

1923400178737783039

[BatManu20]

1923378505527546199

[mo7888]

Just run it through the archive machine, works for most relevant paywall sites.
https://web.archive.org/web/20250516133238/https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6355117/2025/05/16/nba-draft-2025-intel-spurs-sixers-bucks/?source=emp_shared_article

That was a very good article. Thanks for sharing it..

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

but what route would he prefer? the organc development of a core of talented players of his age group, that is focused on him and his needs? or the blockbuster that turns the franchise upside down over night?
I'm not so sure, he prefers the latter.

This is a valid question. I’m pretty sure Wemby will be consulted and his and his people’s opinion taken into account.

In the past Duncan would have told them to do whatever they feel is best for the team but Wemby certainly seems more hands on when it comes to these things.

Either way, we’re in exciting times as Spurs fans.

[John B]

Theoretically, Danny Wolf is the ideal pick.

A big, smart guy who can play any position on the floor; his passing chops are impressive; three-point shooting is not a concern (but TBD, of course), and he's got a year under his belt playing in a 2-big lineup alongside Vladislav Goldin - and there might be a little bit of synergy to tap were the Spurs to also draft Goldin with the #38.

... Seriously doubt the Spurs select three rookies in this year's draft, however, fun to think about.

You got my drift

#2 Dylan, #14 Wolf, #38 Goldin addresses the needs of this team. Dylan is a no brainer, and allows that there’s always a lead PG on the court, a smart mobile big who’s both a connector and a post defender in Wolf, and a true backup big in Goldin. I’m okay with Barnes starting (for now). Vassell really needs to move to the bench with Keldon, Sochan and Champ with any of Fox/Castle/Dylan as the ball handler.

These 3 already play Spurs type of basketball and should fit seamlessly. No need to re-invent the wheel.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923198014635581696

[BatManu20]

Even the Sixers don't want Bailey it appears.

1923415625902276724

[Mr. Body]

Philly doesn't really need another young player, they need vets who can contribute.

[John B]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923198014635581696

A bit slow coming down. I don’t know if he can cover the pick and roll. The NBA guards will have him on roller skates.

[John B]

Even the Sixers don't want Bailey it appears.

1923415625902276724

Bailey is falling fast. I’m okay taking him at 14 lol

[LeBowen]

During the episode, host John Clark asked Morey about the plans for using the third pick of the draft.
“Yeah, our plan is to pick this pick, yeah,” Morey responded. “Yeah, I think the top few, top three, four, you could argue, five maybe. I mean there's good players in this draft.”
“The top of this draft, I think, I would say I was very fortunate to start my career in the 2003 draft. Which some argue is the best draft of all time, but I think it’s in the top five of high-quality players in the top of the draft in my career,” he added.



:lol



Philly doesn't really need another young player, they need vets who can contribute.

Contribute to what? They'd just be digging themselves even deeper.
Embiid's career is probably over, even if it's not he'll miss most of the next season.
PG's contract is already the worst in the league and it just started.
They literally don't have anyone on the roster other than those two, Maxey and McCain.
Oubre and Drummond have player options, but that's it.

They need to blow it up while they still can.
I'd even go with some radical measures such as calling the Bucks and offering a Lillard-PG trade just to get rid of an extra year from PG's contract.

[dn0774]

That Vecenie article is well worth reading. Do the quick Ctrl+A then Ctrl+C to copy the text before the paywall loads and paste it somewhere.

A teaser:

That eastern conference executive? Bucks GM Jon Horst. Jk.

But seriously, they desperately want the Spurs involved (OKC too) in the Giannis sweepstakes to drive the price up and if they aren’t involved then well placed media will be anonymously told they are involved. Saying the Spurs instantly become title favorites with Giannis is overly optimistic and not taking into account the haul the Bucks will hold out for him.

That being said, I can understand why Vecenie (who I listen to) is very pro-Giannis trade; it would be amazing content whether it succeeds or fails.

[Knoxxx]

Philly doesn't really need another young player, they need vets who can contribute.

Send them Vassell and the 14 for the 3.

[John B]

I highly doubt the Spurs trade. But if they can facilitate to get extra picks here and there, yup. And not even for Flagg. If anything I learned from following the Spurs for over 30 years, they want to reassure their players. Dylan, you’re the man! And nothing builds confidence more than the whole team on your back. Secondly, they want it homegrown. I expect the Spurs to run the same guys and evaluate the 3-guard offense and tweak from there. Castle/Wemby/Dylan will be the future and they will make it clear early. The players they choose will compliment those 3. No re-inventing the wheel.

[LeBowen]

Send them Vassell and the 14 for the 3.

He said they need players who can contribute.

[dn0774]

He said they need players who can contribute.

Hey! That 14th pick could be anybody!

[mo7888]

Send them Vassell and the 14 for the 3.

That's the kind of deal that the Sixers might go for, but we'd need to add a future 1st or two to get it done. I like how you're thinking there.

[Mr. Body]

While I'd love to also get Tre or VJ, that #3 salary slot is pretty expensive and we have a horrific logjam at guards already.

[BatManu20]

Bailey is falling fast. I’m okay taking him at 14 lol

He's not falling that far but I wouldn't at all be surprised to see VJ Edgecomb and Tre Johnson go ahead of him. I don't think he falls past Utah at 5 though.

[BatManu20]

Send them Vassell and the 14 for the 3.

I've legit been pondering this type of trade in my head the past few days. If we could somehow swap Vassell and his bloated salary for Tre Johnson and his Rookie salary in a trade. Don't think there's any way to realistically pull it off without overpaying, but it's 100% a move that I would go in on. Johnson is basically a Devin Booker clone imo and I would love to have his as part of our core moving forward.

[John B]

Bailey is a high ceiling, high risk kind of pick but who will demand the ball if ever. The Spurs already have Wemby/Dylan/Castle. What they need now are role players “who know” their role in the team, not a lone-wolf. Vassell problem is he needs to reconcile with that fact. Keldon did. SJax had problem with that. I think for that reason I doubt they will try to get Bailey. Spurs need high character role players, Wolf, Fleming, Bryant, Goldin in 2nd round. I like Sorber at 14 a lot, but would he demand the ball? Wolf said on his interview he would do anything the team needs him to do and he has plenty of skills. To curtail his turnover, his role needs to be defined like in the old Pop days, getting called out if a player is out of position or not playing defense or not getting the rebound.

[mo7888]

While I'd love to also get Tre or VJ, that #3 salary slot is pretty expensive and we have a horrific logjam at guards already.

If we were to pull off that kind of deal with Philly, it might be advantageous to include Utah and send them #3 + Keldon for #5 + Collins. It'd be a better range for us to take Bailey or Knueppel too.

[scott]

I still don't like him that much. Apparently has a very very slow release on his shot in the combine and I still question the defense.

Yeah there is actually not much about Wolf that I really like... it's the archetype... which of course is the wrong reason to draft someone. But a skilled, bulky 7 footer who can shoot would pair perfectly with Wemby and a 3-guard lineup.

[CGD]

Yeah there is actually not much about Wolf that I really like... it's the archetype... which of course is the wrong reason to draft someone. But a skilled, bulky 7 footer who can shoot would pair perfectly with Wemby and a 3-guard lineup.

That doesn't describe Wolf at all. He can't shoot.

[scott]

If Sorber's not there at 14, I want a trade down with Brooklyn and Yaxel with one of the two late first rounders. I was previously very high on CMB and still am, but his drive game and advantage creation is going to be completely redundant with Harper on the team as opposed to, say, if the spurs had drafted Kon or Tre Johnson.

Yaxel's such an obvious parallel for a Pascal Siakam-type developmental trajectory that I'm surprised this isn't more mainstream. Dude didn't even start playing organized basketball until senior year of high school and the amount he's improved in 4 years is pretty crazy - I don't think the standard age concerns necessarily apply to him given his late entry into organized basketball.

With regards to team needs:
Size - 6'10" in shoes with a 7'4" wingspan
Physicality - 12%/26% OREB/DREB%, better than most centers and pretty much every forward; career 50% FTR at UAB
Defense - 5.1/2.8 BLK%/STL%, translating to ability to protect the rim and guard the perimeter; AAC DPOY his junior year, and senior year transitioned from guarding post-ups to iso's and on the perimeter
Shooting - 78% FT and 35% on 3s on medium volume
Connective passing - 4.2 assists per game on almost 2 AST:TO

In short, this is exactly the type of guy you want next to Wemby if he develops properly, but is getting severely overlooked because of his age. He is physically big and more importantly, he plays like a big who can give you physicality, high energy, and rebounding. His outside shot and shooting indicators suggest he has outs to become a good shooter for a big. I would rather have a big who can shoot next to Wemby than a wing who can rebound, and this guy gives you that. More importantly, his passing vision and basketball IQ means that you can potentially have connectivity at all 5 positions, juicing your offense. I think he's getting highly underrated for what he brings and can bring to the table.

https://www.tankathon.com/players/compare?players=yaxel-lendeborg--pascal-siakam

You sold me in one post (it helps that its coming from you - one of our most credible draft posters).

Yaxel Gang!

Edit: I see that Yaxel is saying he is 50/50 on whether to stay in the draft or transfer to Michigan. Hmmmm... sounds like he'll need a round 1 promise to stay in the draft.

What do you think about his range? is #14 too rich?

[scott]

That doesn't describe Wolf at all. He can't shoot.

In that case, I'm already out.

The Wolf Mafia in here keeps talking him up like he can. Last time I fall for that propaganda.

[Guru of Nothing]

Johni Broome lining up endorsement money.

1922679300500619322

[RC_Drunkford]

You sold me in one post (it helps that its coming from you - one of our most credible draft posters).

Yaxel Gang!

Edit: I see that Yaxel is saying he is 50/50 on whether to stay in the draft or transfer to Michigan. Hmmmm... sounds like he'll need a round 1 promise to stay in the draft.

What do you think about his range? is #14 too rich?

this is why I'm totally against trading the pick. Players like Sorber, Lendeborg or Coward could instantly crack the rotation and come off the bench. Even a guy like McNeeley. At least one of those will be there if not multiple.

[scottspurs]

Count me out on the Danny Wolf Pack. What makes him most effective is his ability as a creator. With the Spurs he will not be able to do that. Especially if they pick Harper at 2. If it was Flagg you could talk me into it. He shot 33% from 3 which is good for a big but 59% from the FT line. That scares me big time. Spacing could potentially be an issue with him. He does rebound but doesn’t bring much else on defense. He will be best served on a team that needs an offense engine. With Fox, potentially Harper, Castle and Wemby that is far from needed. None of those guys will be high assist guys but between them creation will be plentiful. Now if the Spurs went wing at 14 and he made it to pick 38 I could see it because I would take him over a Johni Broome, Hansen Yang or Rocco Zikarsky. Probably would take Kalkbrenner over him but he should also be gone. Good chance they could all be gone and then you have to find a big in free agency at that point.

On the flip side I’m definitely down for some Yaxel Lendeborg. Best rebounder in this class. Shot 35% from 3 although it was only 2 attempts per game. Defense is suspect but he is a late bloomer that is still getting better. He puts in the effort and hustles so I wouldn’t worry too much about that.

Still think Maxime Raynaud would be their guy if Sorber is gone though. 34% from 3 on 5.5 attempts per game. He was the offense for Stanford and I suspect the percentages go up with less volume. The French/Wemby/Stanford connection makes to much sense. 20 and 10 can’t go unnoticed. Has on court chemistry with Wemby. Really started playing some phenomenal defense his final 7 games in March. 2.7 blocks per game. Used him on the perimeter and down low. Did a good job of forcing guards/wings to tough spots/shots. I’m not sure what Stanford did to change their Defense over that stretch but they definitely decided to unleash him as a two-way weapon as he continued to average a double-double. His shooting actually went up slightly during this stretch as well. Went up to 36%. So as he was asked to do more defensively his offense only got better. That only shows signs that he is getting better. Another late bloomer that went from swimming to basketball just like Tim Duncan and played 4 years in college. This is going to jump out as a major green flag player for the Spurs front office. Go watch him in that combine game. He is very high IQ. Highest in this class.

He would make even more sense as a trade down candidate when one of those point guards fall to 14. Or the Spurs could trade the pick for a current 6th grader in 2034 lol

[CGD]

Johni Broome lining up endorsement money.

1922679300500619322

This is an amazing troll job. World class

[scottspurs]

This is an amazing troll job. World class

That’s brutal lol but if the Spurs wait until 38 to pick a big that’s the level of prospect they will be looking at.

[spurraider21]

Wolf would be fine in the Mamu role. he's not a particular good floor stretcher, nor does he do a lot of damage in the post. instead he just plays a face up game in a real point-forward type role. he's not a jokic/sengun type hug where he creates advantages from the post. to me hes like a slow/unathletic franz wagner.

i dont like him at 14

[scott]

Wolf would be fine in the Mamu role. he's not a particular good floor stretcher, nor does he do a lot of damage in the post. instead he just plays a face up game in a real point-forward type role. he's not a jokic/sengun type hug where he creates advantages from the post. to me hes like a slow/unathletic franz wagner.

i dont like him at 14

Was thinking about Mamu in the context of getting Harper... and I'm thinking we should bring him back. He'd still be a deep bench, spot rotation guy... but he fits the needed archetype.

[mo7888]

Was thinking about Mamu in the context of getting Harper... and I'm thinking we should bring him back. He'd still be a deep bench, spot rotation guy... but he fits the needed archetype.

Minority opinion, but he'd be surrounded by 4 + defenders that could cover for him on that end and I think that makes him have actual value.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/1923409710864126025

[SpursBills]

You sold me in one post (it helps that its coming from you - one of our most credible draft posters).

Yaxel Gang!

Edit: I see that Yaxel is saying he is 50/50 on whether to stay in the draft or transfer to Michigan. Hmmmm... sounds like he'll need a round 1 promise to stay in the draft.

What do you think about his range? is #14 too rich?

I personally would probably take him in that range for us, but I wouldn't offer him a first round promise because there's a decent chance that Sorber's going to be there and (assuming the foot checks out) I think Sorber's got a chance to be a borderline top 5 defensive center with neutral to plus offensive impact. If I managed to snag 19 and 26/27 from Brooklyn I'm offering him a first round promise for sure. It's hard to peg how much his late development arc affects things - like if he were a normal 20 year old doing what he's doing I'd probably have him top 5-10 but if he's a normal 22 year old he's probably a mid second rounder for me. I tend to put a heavier emphasis on late development, which is why I have both him and Maluach very high, but who knows if that's right - I'm just some random dude watching youtube clips and glancing at spreadsheets when I get bored of my day job.

[SpursBills]

Count me out on the Danny Wolf Pack. What makes him most effective is his ability as a creator. With the Spurs he will not be able to do that. Especially if they pick Harper at 2. If it was Flagg you could talk me into it. He shot 33% from 3 which is good for a big but 59% from the FT line. That scares me big time. Spacing could potentially be an issue with him. He does rebound but doesn’t bring much else on defense. He will be best served on a team that needs an offense engine. With Fox, potentially Harper, Castle and Wemby that is far from needed. None of those guys will be high assist guys but between them creation will be plentiful. Now if the Spurs went wing at 14 and he made it to pick 38 I could see it because I would take him over a Johni Broome, Hansen Yang or Rocco Zikarsky. Probably would take Kalkbrenner over him but he should also be gone. Good chance they could all be gone and then you have to find a big in free agency at that point.

On the flip side I’m definitely down for some Yaxel Lendeborg. Best rebounder in this class. Shot 35% from 3 although it was only 2 attempts per game. Defense is suspect but he is a late bloomer that is still getting better. He puts in the effort and hustles so I wouldn’t worry too much about that.

Still think Maxime Raynaud would be their guy if Sorber is gone though. 34% from 3 on 5.5 attempts per game. He was the offense for Stanford and I suspect the percentages go up with less volume. The French/Wemby/Stanford connection makes to much sense. 20 and 10 can’t go unnoticed. Has on court chemistry with Wemby. Really started playing some phenomenal defense his final 7 games in March. 2.7 blocks per game. Used him on the perimeter and down low. Did a good job of forcing guards/wings to tough spots/shots. I’m not sure what Stanford did to change their Defense over that stretch but they definitely decided to unleash him as a two-way weapon as he continued to average a double-double. His shooting actually went up slightly during this stretch as well. Went up to 36%. So as he was asked to do more defensively his offense only got better. That only shows signs that he is getting better. Another late bloomer that went from swimming to basketball just like Tim Duncan and played 4 years in college. This is going to jump out as a major green flag player for the Spurs front office. Go watch him in that combine game. He is very high IQ. Highest in this class.

He would make even more sense as a trade down candidate when one of those point guards fall to 14. Or the Spurs could trade the pick for a current 6th grader in 2034 lol

A Fox-Harper-Castle-Raynaud-Wemby lineup would be fucking hilarious. Basically like bizarro Cleveland where you've got 2 7 footers bombing 3s while 3 guards take turns living in the paint. I don't know how much that setup would win but it's something I'd definitely enjoy watching.

[PopTheGOAT]

A Fox-Harper-Castle-Raynaud-Wemby lineup would be fucking hilarious. Basically like bizarro Cleveland where you've got 2 7 footers bombing 3s while 3 guards take turns living in the paint. I don't know how much that setup would win but it's something I'd definitely enjoy watching.
This is exactly what they’re building by taking Harper at 2. It will be interesting to see. I can see us running an action a-la Denver with Jokic. Let Wemby get the ball at the top of the key as a threat to shoot, drive or dish to 3 slashing guards

[Dejounte]

So if Wemby misses (that’s often if we’re being honest) and so does the other 7 footer, it will be up to our guards to box out and rebound? Idk… sounds like a recipe for disaster

[LeBowen]

So if Wemby misses (that’s often if we’re being honest) and so does the other 7 footer, it will be up to our guards to box out and rebound? Idk… sounds like a recipe for disaster

3pts are usually longer rebounds, one 7 footer shoots it and the other one crashes the glass. :lol

[Vienna]

Measurements and testing numbers are up now on nba.com
https://www.nba.com/stats/draft/combine-anthro

many numbers have already been reported. some are news.

[Dejounte]

3pts are usually longer rebounds, one 7 footer shoots it and the other one crashes the glass. :lol


With bigs, they are usually good at rebounds or 3 pt shooting, not both. When theyre good at both, it’s either uncommon or they’re a star. If we’re parking our second big at the 3 pt line, it’s because they’re a better 3 pt shooter than they are a rebounder. Then, when wemby shoots, this second big runs to the rim to grab a rebound… problem is, they’re not a great rebounder, nor will our 1-3 players box out effectively enough because of their size.

[spurraider21]

Fleming's vert numbers disappointed

27 inch standing, 32.5 max. he looked a bit springer than that imo. for reference those are the same numbers filiposwki had last year.

though fleming has the good start with 7'5 wingspan and 9'1 standing reach while coming in at a healthy 230 pounds

[Twisted_Dawg]

So if Wemby misses (that’s often if we’re being honest) and so does the other 7 footer, it will be up to our guards to box out and rebound? Idk… sounds like a recipe for disaster
Hopefully our coaches can teach our guards box out fundamentals, something they've not done with our bigs.

[Dejounte]

Hopefully our coaches can teach our guards box out fundamentals, something they've not done with our bigs.

That still wouldn’t be enough tbh. Size (not just height, but weight, girth) rules above all when it comes to rebounding

[scottspurs]

2025 NBA Draft Board


After the combine this is my board. I put every player I could find on the board just for reference but I haven’t watched many of the draft and stash/ two way prospects so I’m still sorting through those guys but the top 85 or so I feel solid about.


Here is how I tier my board




Generational Talent- a rare player that can be MVP caliber, carry a franchise to championships and is a surefire hall of famer. Goats
Franchise player- player that can be the foundational piece for an NBA franchise
All-Star- player that if they reach their ceiling can be a top player in the league and multi-time all-Star
Starter- a player that can come in and start and/or develop into a high-end starter.
Project- a player that has high upside that could develop anywhere from franchise player to high end starter, to bench role player.
Role player- a player that could be a bench role player or even a low end starter in the NBA
Developmental- a player that needs to develop and has a wide range of outcomes but doesn’t have high level potential
Draft and stash- a player that needs to develop and is a candidate to be stashed in another league. Wide range of outcomes and potential is unknown
Two way- a player that may not be good enough to get drafted but does because he will agree to a two-way nba contract. Summer league/Gleague/international league candidates that are training camp bodies



Sometimes projects and draft/stash prospects can get intertwined into other tiers


Tier 1- Generational Talent
Not available


Tier 2 Franchise Player


Cooper Flagg - franchise potential



Tier 3 All-Star potential


Dylan Harper - all-star potential
Tre Johnson - all-star potential
VJ Edgecombe - all-star potential
Derik Queen - all-star potential
Kasparas Jakucionis- all-star potential
Ace Bailey - all-star potential



Tier 4 Starter potential


Cedric Coward- starter potential
Thomas Sorber- starter potential
Khaman Maluach- starter potential
Kon Knueppel- starter potential
Nique Clifford - starter potential
Noa Essengue - starter potential
Egor Demin- starter potential
Will Riley - starter potential
Nolan Traore - starter potential
Jase Richardson- starter potential
Jeremiah Fears - starter potential
Maxime Raynaud - starter potential
Rasheer Fleming - starter potential
Asa Newell - starter potential
Yaxel Lendeborg - starter potential
Walter Clayton Jr. - starter potential
Noah Penda - starter potential
Kam Jones- starter potential



Tier 5 Role Players


Carter Bryant - Project
Joan Beringer- Project
Neoklis Avdalas- Project
Danny Wolf - role player
Liam McNeely- role player
Collin Murray-Boyles- role player
Adou Thiero - role player
Sion James - role player
Hansen Yang- role player
Koby Brea- role player
Chaz Lanier - role player
Ryan Kalkbrenner- role player
Vladislav Goldin- role player
Alex Condon - role player
Johni Broome- role player
Hugo Gonzalez- draft and stash
Ben Saraf - draft and stash
Bogoljub Markovic - project
Rocco Zikarsky - project



Tier 6 Developmental


Drake Powell developmental
Miles Byrd - developmental
Labaron Philon- developmental
Tahaad Pettiford- developmental
Grant Nelson - developmental
Alex Toohey - developmental
Tobi Lawal- developmental
Karter Knox - developmental
Yanic Konan Niederhauser - developmental
Milos Uzan - developmental
Tyrese Proctor - developmental
John Tonje - developmental
Ryan Nembhard - developmental
Eric Dixon - developmental
Tamar Bates - developmental
Mark Sears - developmental
Kobe Johnson - developmental
Jaxson Robinson - developmental
Micah Peavy- developmental
Jalon Moore - developmental
Brice Williams - developmental
Dink Pate- developmental
Hunter Sallis- developmental
Kobe Sanders - developmental
Jamir Watkins- developmental
Izan Almansa- developmental
Alijah Martin- developmental
Javon Small - developmental
Mackenzie Mgbako - developmental
Darrion Williams - developmental
Payton Sandfort - developmental
RJ Luis- developmental
Melvin Council Jr. - developmental
Brandon Walker - developmental
Michael Ruzic- draft and stash
Johann Grunloh- draft and stash
Flory Bidunga- developmental
Max Shulga-developmental
Otega Oweh- developmental
Lachlan Olbrich - developmental
Ben Henshall - developmental



Tier 7a Draft and Stash


Mouhamed Faye- draft and stash
Mo Diawara- draft and stash
Bassala Bagayoko - draft and stash
Paul Mbiya- draft and stash
Lazar Gacic- draft and stash
Ousmane Ndiaye- draft and stash
Asim Djulovic - draft and stash
Alec Anigbata - draft and stash
Saliou Niang - draft and stash
Eli John Ndiaye - draft and stash
Zaion Nebot - draft and stash
Mohammad Amini - draft and stash
David Torresani - draft and stash



Tier 7b Two Way


Rueben Chinyelu - two-way
LJ Cryer - two-way
Silas Demary Jr. - two way
Treysen Eaglestaff - two-way
Money Williams - two-way
RJ Felton - two-way
Joson Sanon - two-way
John Blackwell - two-way
Jerry Deng - two way
Bruce Thornton Jr.
Elijah Fisher - two way
PJ Haggeety - two way
Chris Howell - two way
Josh Hubbard - two way
Kobe Knox - two way
Brenen Lorient - two way
Nick Martinelli - two way
Camron McDowell - two way
Devin McGlockton - two way
Thierry Darlan - two way
Isaac Nogues - two way
Jaden Bradley - two way
Tae Davis - two way
Jaland Lowe - two way
Kebba Njie- two way
AK Okereke - two way
Raysean Seamster - two way
Nathan Bittle - two way
Quincy Ballard - two way
Dominick Harris two way
Tayton Conerway - two way
Jaron Pierre - two way
Omar Rowe - two way

[Dejounte]

I’ll play your game scottspurs

Tier 1- Generational
None

Tier 2 - Franchise
Flagg

Tier 3 - All Star Potential
Harper
VJ
Queen
Jase Richardson
Saraf

Tier 4 - Starter (im going to interpret this as players who are in the top 5 in the rotation and/ or minutes on a team)
Kon Knueppel
Thomas Sorber
Tre Johnson
Ace Bailey
Demin
Penda

Tier 5 - Role Player (this is a weird one because role players can be starters too)
Kasparas
Malauch
Will Riley
CMB
Wolf

Tier 6 - Developmental (another weird one, because i dont necessarily think these players are worse than the tier 5 players.. they may just take more time)
Fleming
Bryant
Essengue
Beringer
Nolan

Tier 7 Busts (wasnt part of your tiers but i just wanted to make one)
McNeeley

[John B]

Fleming's vert numbers disappointed

27 inch standing, 32.5 max. he looked a bit springer than that imo. for reference those are the same numbers filiposwki had last year.

though fleming has the good start with 7'5 wingspan and 9'1 standing reach while coming in at a healthy 230 pounds

CIA Mitch tank the vertical and land on our lap

[PhantomDashCam]

1923517340005667081

I’ll be interested to see where he lands. His shot to me, is much better than the scouting reports and numbers indicate. His jumper’s fluidity and quick release are top tier IMHO.

[cd98]

I watched quite a few BYU games and Demin is all over the map. He struggled to dribble against pressure and had some awful open court turnovers. But he was a great passer. His shooting was pretty bad but his mechanics looked good. He played better in the tournament but most of the season he didn’t look like a lottery pick at all.

[ChumpDumper]

You sold me in one post (it helps that its coming from you - one of our most credible draft posters).

Yaxel Gang!

Edit: I see that Yaxel is saying he is 50/50 on whether to stay in the draft or transfer to Michigan. Hmmmm... sounds like he'll need a round 1 promise to stay in the draft.

What do you think about his range? is #14 too rich?Saw him play a lot in the AAC. Trading down to him seems pretty doable. He is still developing at his age but I'm not sure if he's NBA star material since most of the teams he played against were garbage. It was unfortunate he got injured during the conference tournament and NIT; would've been good to see him at full strength against better teams. He'll be able to do a bit of everything at the next level, I think, so he could fit on the team.

[Mr. Body]

1923517340005667081

I’ll be interested to see where he lands. His shot to me, is much better than the scouting reports and numbers indicate. His jumper’s fluidity and quick release are top tier IMHO.

Damn people need to pay less attention to the shots that go down in an empty gym. The guy was a terrible shooter in college when in mattered.

I like him, but empty gym shots are pointless.

[PhantomDashCam]

Damn people need to pay less attention to the shots that go down in an empty gym. The guy was a terrible shooter in college when in mattered.

I like him, but empty gym shots are pointless.

I agree that holistically, in the scheme of drafting/data available, that these shots don’t matter. I disagree though in there not being anything of value to note here.
1. Technique is important. It’s repeatable, he’s comfortable with it and the range looks effortless.
2. He’s been compared to Josh Giddey in play style and shooting. I think he’s much further along than that coming in…and Giddey just shot 38% from 3 in 70 games this year.

1923424140368695715

[KobesAchilles]

I agree that holistically, in the scheme of drafting/data available, that these shots don’t matter. I disagree though in there not being anything of value to note here.
1. Technique is important. It’s repeatable, he’s comfortable with it and the range looks effortless.
2. He’s been compared to Josh Giddey in play style and shooting. I think he’s much further along than that coming in…and Giddey just shot 38% from 3 in 70 games this year.

1923424140368695715
With the 5th pick, the Utah Jazz select…

[objective]

Fleming's vert numbers disappointed

27 inch standing, 32.5 max. he looked a bit springer than that imo. for reference those are the same numbers filiposwki had last year.

though fleming has the good start with 7'5 wingspan and 9'1 standing reach while coming in at a healthy 230 pounds

Kawhi's vert numbers were also disappointing, 25.5 and 32.0.

When your arms are that long, you don't need to jump high to get jaw dropping dunks or blocks, and Flemming it's what, 2 inches taller?

[cd98]

Spurs won't draft Demin as they have enough guards and I don't see his game converting to a small forward or a power forward despite his height.

[BackHome]

Agreed, if we were drafting Flagg then maybe but with us getting Harper it doesn’t make sense - But who knows maybe Utah gives us a great trade to move to 14 as I believe they have two picks.

[objective]

I've watched a lot of Zikarsky footage and I'M IN

I was in on Yang for money reasons but might be gone. Raynaud is promising but is looking like he'll be gone by 38. Gonzalez will probably be gone.

That leaves Rocco. He'll need a year or two in the g-league, and still will be a career backup. But he is a legit shot blocker and super young. He doesn't have to be a finished product now, he needs development. But I can see it.

Rocco!

[Mr. Body]

With the 5th pick, the Utah Jazz select…

Ainge has a big presence with BYU

[BatManu20]

1923736211174113603

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923770234873225657

[DPG21920]

1923770234873225657

[SpursBills]

I know that he's probably not a fit in the traditional sense because he doesn't offer much in the way of strength/size or shooting, but there is a world where the Spurs just say "fuck it, we're leaning into the Fox-Harper transition game, going full longboi, and running opponents out of the gym".

In that sense, Essengue has to be at the top of the list at 14 if he's not already gone by then - dude's got a 9'3" standing reach (which would be 4th highest in the combine behind Rocco, Maluach, and Kalkbrenner), putting up numbers and making a positive impact on the second best pro team in a respectable foreign league, and is the same age as Flagg. By far the best transition wing player in this draft looking at transition volume and points per possession. Just put up 21/4/3 today in his first playoff game today. Looks raw as hell, but at some point I think you have to take a swing at youth x tools x production, especially if you've got extra picks to play with.

[SpursBills]

I’ll play your game scottspurs (https://www.spurstalk.com/forums/member.php?u=17106)

Tier 1- Generational
None

Tier 2 - Franchise
Flagg

Tier 3 - All Star Potential
Harper
VJ
Queen
Jase Richardson
Saraf

Tier 4 - Starter (im going to interpret this as players who are in the top 5 in the rotation and/ or minutes on a team)
Kon Knueppel
Thomas Sorber
Tre Johnson
Ace Bailey
Demin
Penda

Tier 5 - Role Player (this is a weird one because role players can be starters too)
Kasparas
Malauch
Will Riley
CMB
Wolf

Tier 6 - Developmental (another weird one, because i dont necessarily think these players are worse than the tier 5 players.. they may just take more time)
Fleming
Bryant
Essengue
Beringer
Nolan

Tier 7 Busts (wasnt part of your tiers but i just wanted to make one)
McNeeley

Looking at some stuff for Sorber now, do you think that his 50-70th percentile outcome is better or worse than current Wendell Carter Jr? He fits that WCJ/Horford style of smart big that's decent at everything. They're basically same height, similar build, Sorber about 1 inch longer, nearly identical standing reach. I think Sorber's defense is better both as a post defender and being able to switch out on the perimeter, but my worry is that he's going to be way more of an offensive negative - he seems less vertically explosive and this is supported by his significantly fewer dunks (21 vs 56) and slightly lesser rebounding rates (10/22 vs 13/23 O/D). He's got some reasonable post moves, but I'm not convinced he has the explosiveness to be effective in the post, nor the handle to drive in from the perimeter, nor the pop/sheer size to be a vertical spacer, and his shooting signal is comparable if not worse from FT, 3 point, and midrange. What do you see as his reasonable outcome?

[Dejounte]

Looking at some stuff for Sorber now, do you think that his 50-70th percentile outcome is better or worse than current Wendell Carter Jr? He fits that WCJ/Horford style of smart big that's decent at everything. They're basically same height, similar build, Sorber about 1 inch longer, nearly identical standing reach. I think Sorber's defense is better both as a post defender and being able to switch out on the perimeter, but my worry is that he's going to be way more of an offensive negative - he seems less vertically explosive and this is supported by his significantly fewer dunks (21 vs 56) and slightly lesser rebounding rates (10/22 vs 13/23 O/D). He's got some reasonable post moves, but I'm not convinced he has the explosiveness to be effective in the post, nor the handle to drive in from the perimeter, nor the pop/sheer size to be a vertical spacer, and his shooting signal is comparable if not worse from FT, 3 point, and midrange. What do you see as his reasonable outcome?

When I consider what type of inside big will potentially fit with Wemby is one who doesn’t have a complex array of offensive skills (like say, Queen) who will likely be underutilized here because of obvious reasons. I also think Sorber’s skills on the offensive end thrive on fundamentals: positioning, angles, cutting. No move is wasted, and he tries to look for the easiest way to get a basket. For this reason, the physical tools or amount of dunks you mentioned aren’t required for the old-school style he plays. Don’t confuse this with me saying his offense is so basic that it mirrors Dejuan Blair… I think he is so smart on offense that he’s a step ahead of his man and he’s making them react to his move instead of the other way around.

In summary, I think it’s important to get a big like Sorber who is not overqualified for the role the team will require and someone who plays smart on both ends. I get getting a high flyer, but two points is two points. I think Sorber’s savviness on offense will still help the team get those easy two points.

[scott]

Increasingly digging the late lotto/early 20s options

Sorber
Coward
Yaxel
Essengue
Penda
Bryant

All guys who offer various things I'm interested in. Don't think the Spurs would do it, but would love to flip 14 for two of BKN later picks to end up with two of these guys

[Eaglenole2002]

Just took a first run at my Spurs draft board/wish list for 14

Obviously will be gone by 14…



Flagg
Harper
Edgecombe
Kneuffel
Bailey
Johnson


Realistic options for 14




Coward (completely buying the hype)
Bryant
Essengue
Maluach
Clifford



I really hope they’re gone by 14 to push someone else down…
Fears
Queen
Demin


Not sure how I’d feel…
Jaku
Sorber
Penda
Newell
CMB


Feels too early
Wolf
Riley
Raynaud
Fleming
Lendenborg
Berringer
McNeeley


Assuming we draft Harper, I want no part of them despite having legit NBA role player or better upside…
Richardson
Traore
Clayton Jr (ok, maybe not 14 but even with a trade down)

[BackHome]

Increasingly digging the late lotto/early 20s options

Sorber
Coward
Yaxel
Essengue
Penda
Bryant

All guys who offer various things I'm interested in. Don't think the Spurs would do it, but would love to flip 14 for two of BKN later picks to end up with two of these guys

I just want to turn the bench as I think we can now start the process of deepening our second unit.

For Offense Go:
Coward
Yaxel

For Defense Go:
Sober
Bryant
Penda

[SpursBills]

I will say this - there are multiple options I'd be perfectly happy with at 14 - Essengue, Sorber, Carter Bryant, even poor fits like CMB or trade downs like Yaxel. Hell, I don't even like Fleming and I'd be fine with him at 14.

Whereas even if we'd taken Kon at 8 who would've been a great fit, something would have still felt a little bit lacking. Lucking into 2 really made it so there's very few ways I can be unhappy with this draft.

[scott]

I will say this - there are multiple options I'd be perfectly happy with at 14 - Essengue, Sorber, Carter Bryant, even poor fits like CMB or trade downs like Yaxel. Hell, I don't even like Fleming and I'd be fine with him at 14.

Whereas even if we'd taken Kon at 8 who would've been a great fit, something would have still felt a little bit lacking. Lucking into 2 really made it so there's very few ways I can be unhappy with this draft.

Agree with this completely. I liked the options at around 5-10 better last year, but like the top of this draft a lot more, and the late lotto and late first a LOT LOT more. The teens look like a real sweet spot in this draft.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1923915977567203403

[dubross]

not sure why people are low on Queen but i can see him fitting well with Wemby and also being that first big off the bench. He is just too skillful. He probably will not be there at 14 but if he is, I wouldn’t mind taking him. He can rebound and can score and pass. His defense is a work in progress to see he has the lateral quickness to guard in space but at 14 you will get a flawed player.

[John B]

not sure why people are low on Queen but i can see him fitting well with Wemby and also being that first big off the bench. He is just too skillful. He probably will not be there at 14 but if he is, I wouldn’t mind taking him. He can rebound and can score and pass. His defense is a work in progress to see he has the lateral quickness to guard in space but at 14 you will get a flawed player.

I liked Queen until the Spurs got #2 and now poised to draft Dylan and would create that 3-guard offense. I just don’t think Queen would fit that running, motion offense that will be the natural play. I think a more mobile big would be ideal, also preferably a stretch big who can open up the lane, someone like Fleming. To me Wolf fits the bill but many here questions his physicality. Sorber is a big who can move and has shown promise with 72% FT.

[Knoxxx]

I liked Queen until the Spurs got #2 and now poised to draft Dylan and would create that 3-guard offense. I just don’t think Queen would fit that running, motion offense that will be the natural play. I think a more mobile big would be ideal, also preferably a stretch big who can open up the lane, someone like Fleming. To me Wolf fits the bill but many here questions his physicality. Sorber is a big who can move and has shown promise with 72% FT.

At this point we could be picking from all four of Queen-Sorber-Fleming-Wolfe at 14 which is why many of us are high on the pick.

[exstatic]

At this point we could be picking from all four of Queen-Sorber-Fleming-Wolfe at 14 which is why many of us are high on the pick.

I wouldn’t get too attached to the idea of the Spurs drafting and keeping a player at 14. You’ll only be pissed off when they flip it for a 2032 unprotected first. It’s not the best idea to build expectations that go against historical organization norms.

[Eaglenole2002]

I don’t think Queen can play defense at an NBA level and have concerns about his athleticism on offense limiting whatever polish and skill he has on that end. I really hope someone picks him before 14.

[RC_Drunkford]

not sure why people are low on Queen but i can see him fitting well with Wemby and also being that first big off the bench. He is just too skillful. He probably will not be there at 14 but if he is, I wouldn’t mind taking him. He can rebound and can score and pass. His defense is a work in progress to see he has the lateral quickness to guard in space but at 14 you will get a flawed player.

because he‘s one of the worst athletes in combine history

[Mr. Body]

I liked Queen until the Spurs got #2 and now poised to draft Dylan and would create that 3-guard offense. I just don’t think Queen would fit that running, motion offense that will be the natural play. I think a more mobile big would be ideal, also preferably a stretch big who can open up the lane, someone like Fleming. To me Wolf fits the bill but many here questions his physicality. Sorber is a big who can move and has shown promise with 72% FT.

I think Queen goes to Washington or maybe like Chicago. He won't last past 10. If he does, I'd grab him without a second question.

I do have defensive concerns. I have no offensive concerns. The guy stands to be extremely good on that side in the right system. I don't give a crap about combine numbers; just watch him actually play. In the Poeltl role on offense, he can roll into the high post and be super effective there. The guy is extremely skilled on that end.

Fit is a question, sure enough. But he's too talented to pass on.

[John B]

I wouldn’t get too attached to the idea of the Spurs drafting and keeping a player at 14. You’ll only be pissed off when they flip it for a 2032 unprotected first. It’s not the best idea to build expectations that go against historical organization norms.

Spurs exercised all 2022 pick so it’s not that they haven’t done so before. I think there are good players on both picks #14 even #38 that Spurs can work on. I think they have next season to experiment on that 3-guard offense, evaluate then bring vets to patch holes, but they sure can audition rookies now and see fit.

[Splits]

because he‘s one of the worst athletes in combine history

Queen is the Primo of this draft. Any team that reaches for him in the lottery are doomed for shame and failure. His game does not transfer at all. He might be worth an early 2nd, but that's it and that's all. Not only can't he shoot from more than 15ft, there are exactly 0 people who think he can in the future. WTF kind of role is that?

[RC_Drunkford]

Coward's defense is ridiculous. The guy is NBA ready from day 1


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ljIA-HcrzFg&t=81s

[Ice009]

Do you think the Spurs would take Coward? And do you think he'll still be on the board for that pick?

[RC_Drunkford]

Do you think the Spurs would take Coward? And do you think he'll still be on the board for that pick?

6,5.25 With 7,2.25 Wingspan with 38.5 inch Vertical,Weighing 214 Pounds and a very good jumpshot. He's basically a more athletic Herb Jones. Is currently mocked between 10-20. I would honestly draft him before Carter Bryant, Fleming and all the other 3-and-D wings. We really need that type of player and with that wingspan he can easily play SF.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

Do you think the Spurs would take Coward? And do you think he'll still be on the board for that pick?

His hype is real and I buy it, but his questions start and end with the level of competition. He has basically never faced anyone good. The only good team he played against last season was Iowa and he was bad in this game. So this is where real NBA level scouts have the ability to project wayyy better than us armchair GMs. If he's for real and if his game can translate then he's a fantastic archetype.

[exstatic]

No one is going to bring up the fact that he played six fucking games this season?

[RC_Drunkford]

No one is going to bring up the fact that he played six fucking games this season?

everybody who has done some research on him knows that

[exstatic]

Strong James Wiseman vibe. Tiny game sample size, awesome combine showing.

[RC_Drunkford]

Strong James Wiseman vibe. Tiny game sample size, awesome combine showing.

I can tell you haven't watched any tape as usual

[scottspurs]

I was 1st intrigued by Cedric Coward when I was doing analytics research for this draft class and his name kept popping up. 70% true shooting % is a wtf no way stat for a wing player. I saw that it was a small sample size so I dug deeper. Watched his film. Everything I could find going all the way back to Eastern Washington and a few clips from High School in Fresno. Was very impressed. Started watching every interview I could find. Seems like a good humble kid that is determined to be great. Again very impressed.

The only weaknesses I found in his game is his handles and his feet are a little slow at times on defense. He makes up for the feet with this length and strength. If he develops a handle he could be an all-star level player. Even without it he will be a high-end starter in this league. If his sample size was bigger, he had a better handle and there were no concerns with his shoulder I think we would be talking about him in the top 3 of this class alongside Flagg and Harper even at his age. Worse case he is Danny Green. Best case he is a Kawhi Leonard/Klay Thompson level player.

[exstatic]

I can tell you haven't watched any tape as usual

I’m sure Wiseman had some great tape from his 3 games, too.

Drafting this kid is the epitome of buying a pig in a poke. Even Primo had more game time in a much better conference.

Don’t do it (again), Brian.

[Dejounte]

It’s a waste of a pick if they pick a small forward, IMO. They need to maximize the time Fox, Harper, Castle play together and so they need to leave the SF spot a little open and not invest too much into it to optimize the trio.

[RC_Drunkford]

I’m sure Wiseman had some great tape from his 3 games, too.

Drafting this kid is the epitome of buying a pig in a poke. Even Primo had more game time in a much better conference.

Don’t do it (again), Brian.

Given that your takes are wrong about 98% of the time this should be a good sign

[scottspurs]

It’s a waste of a pick if they pick a small forward, IMO. They need to maximize the time Fox, Harper, Castle play together and so they need to leave the SF spot a little open and not invest too much into it to optimize the trio.

As much as I like Coward I agree which is why I believe the draft board at 14 will be

Sorber
Raynaud
Lendeborg
Newell

assuming Queen and Maluach are gone. Even then Queen is probably no longer a fit with Harper on board and Maluach is more of a project. I would love a trade back if Sorber is gone.

[Dejounte]

Taking Drake Powell with the 38th pick and putting him on a two way or locking him up with a small contract for a few years is a move I can get behind. He’s very reminiscent of Sidy Cissoko where “talent is oozing from every pore” and it’s a matter of if he can put it altogether. A kind of pick where you see how he does in the gleague, and then make him earn his contracts (incrementally higher for each subsequent contract). That’s how they need to build the backup spots for Fox, Harper, Castle.

[RC_Drunkford]

Taking Drake Powell with the 38th pick and putting him on a two way or locking him up with a small contract for a few years is a move I can get behind. He’s very reminiscent of Sidy Cissoko where “talent is oozing from every pore” and it’s a matter of if he can put it altogether. A kind of pick where you see how he does in the gleague, and then make him earn his contracts (incrementally higher for each subsequent contract). That’s how they need to build the backup spots for Fox, Harper, Castle.

He's definitely somebody I want. Very athletic, good defender, can shoot the 3, enough length for SF. Needs development, but has all the intangibles to become a real 3-and-D player on the NBA level.

[Manu&Duncan fan]

It’s a waste of a pick if they pick a small forward, IMO. They need to maximize the time Fox, Harper, Castle play together and so they need to leave the SF spot a little open and not invest too much into it to optimize the trio.


You nailed it!

[scottspurs]

I think most of us are starting to agree (which worries me because Spurs lol):

Harper at 2

Big at 14/big via trade down

3/d wing at 38

[Knoxxx]

I wouldn’t get too attached to the idea of the Spurs drafting and keeping a player at 14. You’ll only be pissed off when they flip it for a 2032 unprotected first. It’s not the best idea to build expectations that go against historical organization norms.

Sure but it beats trying to pull wild ass trade ideas out of my ass to kill time a month ahead of the draft. Which some may find preferable. Who to pick with the picks we have is a little more concrete concept to cling to.

[CGD]

I liked Queen until the Spurs got #2 and now poised to draft Dylan and would create that 3-guard offense. I just don’t think Queen would fit that running, motion offense that will be the natural play. I think a more mobile big would be ideal, also preferably a stretch big who can open up the lane, someone like Fleming. To me Wolf fits the bill but many here questions his physicality. Sorber is a big who can move and has shown promise with 72% FT.

Jared Sullinger 2.0

[Manu&Duncan fan]

I think most of us are starting to agree (which worries me because Spurs lol):

Harper at 2

Big at 14/big via trade down

3/d wing at 38

Yes I'm on board with you - in principle.

If the big FO likes is gone, trade down #14 for Net's #19 and #26.

Use one to pick a big. Use 2nd one to trade for a veteran like Naz Reid or John Collins.

We just don't agree on which big(s) to pick or to trade for.

I like a guy who is able to catch and shoot 3s, rebound, defend the post; can run with our guards; can play 4 and backup 5, even some 3 (when castle is too small for the opponent's 3).

If the above person doesn't exist, there are several guys who can do some of the above things.

I'm so excited! Spurs is about ready to contend!

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/qibcTKbXyu4?si=1ZnyMSEBQxgme1Za

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/78c4Brf8Y6U?si=lEvdnmQ97afl-SFl

[Manu&Duncan fan]

https://youtu.be/qibcTKbXyu4?si=1ZnyMSEBQxgme1Za

This guy has a poor man's Jokic potential - an offensive hub.

But we don't need another ball handler. Pass.

[exstatic]

https://youtu.be/qibcTKbXyu4?si=1ZnyMSEBQxgme1Za

Mmmmm bop

[mo7888]

I think most of us are starting to agree (which worries me because Spurs lol):

Harper at 2

Big at 14/big via trade down

3/d wing at 38

I'm not quite there. Agree on #2. On #14 I'm BPA or trade back. If a big is BPA at 14 then I agree on 38. If BPA is a forward then I'd go big at 38.

If we do go wing at 38 I hope Drake Powell is there. I think he's the type of high ceiling low floor guy I'd gamble on.

[exstatic]

Sure but it beats trying to pull wild ass trade ideas out of my ass to kill time a month ahead of the draft. Which some may find preferable. Who to pick with the picks we have is a little more concrete concept to cling to.

Of course. It’s just that figuring out what you WANT them to do, instead of what they’ll probably do is what leads to people hating on this front office. I just see like an 85% chance of them flipping the #14 pick. If they use it, I’ll research the player they take, and decide if I like the pick or not. Seems like a waste of time to research a bunch of players for that 15% chance that they pick and keep.

[sfernald]

I don’t think they flip #14 this year cause it’s actually a good draft especially at that point. There are several guys in that range that could really help us. At some point if this front office doesn’t want to get left behind they will need to figure out how to bring more than one rookie along a year. Okc does three rookies every year usually and they always find a gem. And they aren’t afraid to move on from their failures. I think sours can get three great players who can help them in this draft and they should make those picks and empty out the bottom of the roster to make some room for them. If they need to then hire additional development staff.

[Dejounte]

Noah Penda looks like the guy they wanted Sochan to develop into, tbh.

https://x.com/draftexpress/status/1924086661375197422?s=46

I was on this train early, said he might be one of the best defenders of the class.

[Bruno]

https://x.com/spel81/status/1923866121607807454

[John B]

The 3-guard offense is actually ideal for Wemby’s game and body type. His defender would be forced to defend a motion offense freeing Wemby more. 3 quality guards, each could suck defenders creating mismatches and open shots. It couldn’t be any more ideal for Wemby’s natural game, who could be the most opportunistic scorer with his skills and length. What’s missing is another big who is equally a good passer and capable of making shots. Danny Wolf is the most ideal to fit that bill, very smart player, who can shoot, help rebound and block shots. He will be a natural in that motion offense with his passing chops and high basketball IQ. Stop overthinking that he’s mocked at 20’s. He is the ideal guy for that offense. His comp is Turkuglo. I say it’s Diaw himself but bigger and arguably better handles.

[exstatic]

I don’t think they flip #14 this year cause it’s actually a good draft especially at that point. There are several guys in that range that could really help us. At some point if this front office doesn’t want to get left behind they will need to figure out how to bring more than one rookie along a year. Okc does three rookies every year usually and they always find a gem. And they aren’t afraid to move on from their failures. I think sours can get three great players who can help them in this draft and they should make those picks and empty out the bottom of the roster to make some room for them. If they need to then hire additional development staff.

Have you watched what is happening in Denver and Milwaukee? They both went all in immediately, won one title, and are now fucked because the have no way to replenish their rosters. We don’t need extra young players right now. Even our older draftees, Keldon annd Devin, are 24 and 25 years old. We need some veterans to fill the gaps. In 5-6 years, we will be desperate for young talent, having exhausted our current pick and swap stash. I’m glad it’s a good draft at #14, because the return on flipping that pick will probably be the last chance at a high pick in Wemby’s career.

[mo7888]

Have you watched what is happening in Denver and Milwaukee? They both went all in immediately, won one title, and are now fucked because the have no way to replenish their rosters. We don’t need extra young players right now. Even our older draftees, Keldon annd Devin, are 24 and 25 years old. We need some veterans to fill the gaps. In 5-6 years, we will be desperate for young talent, having exhausted our current pick and swap stash. I’m glad it’s a good draft at #14, because the return on flipping that pick will probably be the last chance at a high pick in Wemby’s career.

Between Atlanta, and the 4 swaps we've got (I think it's 4) we've got plenty opportunities to get good future picks. I'd still be ok with flipping 14 for another future pick + a swap kind of deal.

[LeBowen]

Have you watched what is happening in Denver and Milwaukee? They both went all in immediately, won one title, and are now fucked because the have no way to replenish their rosters. We don’t need extra young players right now. Even our older draftees, Keldon annd Devin, are 24 and 25 years old. We need some veterans to fill the gaps. In 5-6 years, we will be desperate for young talent, having exhausted our current pick and swap stash. I’m glad it’s a good draft at #14, because the return on flipping that pick will probably be the last chance at a high pick in Wemby’s career.

Those two situations aren't comparable.
Nuggets fucked up with most of the small trades and free agent signings, on top of giving big extensions to Murray and MPJ.
Bucks had two older co-stars and their time ran out, then they went with an all-in move for another old player and it was over.

But yeah, I don't see #14 being traded if there's a wing Spurs really like.

[John B]

Have you watched what is happening in Denver and Milwaukee? They both went all in immediately, won one title, and are now fucked because the have no way to replenish their rosters. We don’t need extra young players right now. Even our older draftees, Keldon annd Devin, are 24 and 25 years old. We need some veterans to fill the gaps. In 5-6 years, we will be desperate for young talent, having exhausted our current pick and swap stash. I’m glad it’s a good draft at #14, because the return on flipping that pick will probably be the last chance at a high pick in Wemby’s career.

I will argue that the “new opportunity” that the 3-guard offense offers is making the FO re-thinking of their strategies, in a good way. Dylan brings a unique, but good problem. It’s oddly different than what FO was originally preparing for. They need to find players from this draft, FA or trade to complement that 3-guard offense. They will evaluate their current roster, exhaust the draft to audition rookies, then move to FA and trade in that order. I just think it’s a different ballgame with the 3-guard scenario the FO is faced now, and changes some of what they would normally do.

[Manu20]

The 3-guard offense is actually ideal for Wemby’s game and body type. His defender would be forced to defend a motion offense freeing Wemby more. 3 quality guards, each could suck defenders creating mismatches and open shots. It couldn’t be any more ideal for Wemby’s natural game, who could be the most opportunistic scorer with his skills and length. What’s missing is another big who is equally a good passer and capable of making shots. Danny Wolf is the most ideal to fit that bill, very smart player, who can shoot, help rebound and block shots. He will be a natural in that motion offense with his passing chops and high basketball IQ. Stop overthinking that he’s mocked at 20’s. He is the ideal guy for that offense. His comp is Turkuglo. I say it’s Diaw himself but bigger and arguably better handles.

Reading and looking at Danny's Wolf scouting report he looks like a perfect fit! He has the size, is a good rebounder and shooter.

The more I read and see tape of Dylan Harper the more excited I get. The future is bright! Now we would need to find the right pieces going forward (moving devin? keldon?)

[ace3g]

https://x.com/TheSteinLine/status/1924160088274583917

[SouthernFried]

Khaman Maluach

Not the best player in the draft...but, what we need the most.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlFa8NPTims&t=90s

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DraftExpress/status/1924151956462862713

[sfernald]

Have you watched what is happening in Denver and Milwaukee? They both went all in immediately, won one title, and are now fucked because the have no way to replenish their rosters. We don’t need extra young players right now. Even our older draftees, Keldon annd Devin, are 24 and 25 years old. We need some veterans to fill the gaps. In 5-6 years, we will be desperate for young talent, having exhausted our current pick and swap stash. I’m glad it’s a good draft at #14, because the return on flipping that pick will probably be the last chance at a high pick in Wemby’s career.

I disagree. I’m fine with trading out of bad drafts. This is not one of those drafts. This is the draft where you can pick up a Jalen Williams at #14. This draft could be a make or break for the Spurs future if they pick the right guys and don’t trade them away carelessly. They can get a starting quality wing and big if they do their homework and don’t chicken shit out.

[exstatic]

Reading and looking at Danny's Wolf scouting report he looks like a perfect fit! He has the size, is a good rebounder and shooter.

The more I read and see tape of Dylan Harper the more excited I get. The future is bright! Now we would need to find the right pieces going forward (moving devin? keldon?)
His shooting is mediocre, low volume, and probably fake, based on his 59% FTs