Future Spur: Dylan Harper

[SpursFan86]

Trading down from #2 had better yield some top tier youngish talent (TM3 types), or a legit star (Giannis types). If all it collects is a solid role player (Cam Johnson types) and some future 1st rounders then absolutely pass on those trades. Personally, I hope the Spurs stay out of the collecting future 1sts business because while I agree they are great assets to have in the warchest, when it comes time to actually collect everything about it sucks.

Watching ATL scrape and claw for every single win they could muster against the dogshit eastern conference with their only real motivation being to screw our draft pick up was agonizing. When you have other teams 1st rounders you know they are going to go all out (because why wouldn't they?) and feast on other teams actually actively tanking. If ATL had their own pick this year we all know it would've been a top 6 or so pick instead of the 14 that we actually got kind of lucky to end up with.

Pretty much my thoughts exactly. Not really interested in trading #2 at all unless it’s for a legitimate star.

[dn0774]

Just listen to the latest KOC podcast, there is definitely an agenda to see Harper elsewhere.

Brooklyn comes up a lot: what would it take for you to make that deal (keeping in mind they have a shit ton of future assets too)?

So many of those podcasters just love having plenty to talk about and big trades = more content, so its not surprising they love to speculate in that manner. Not to mention, Harper being on a slower development track with the Spurs (behind Fox/Castle/Vassell) isn't nearly as interesting to them and their product as Harper being on a basement team getting 36 mpg and massive usage. The other side of the coin to the Spurs trading Harper would likely mean a huge name (Giannis for instance) coming to the Spurs which from their POV(content perspective) would also be amazing. It means Spurs are going all in into win now mode.

All of that to say, from a podcaster/content creator POV, the Spurs taking the patient and disciplined development approach just isn't sexy.

[Mnky]

I hope you're right..... Insofar as his understanding that he needs the help, even if it leads to a reduced role.

But I've also heard a lot of Kings fans talking about how Fox said all that stuff about wanting help, and sharing the ball, yet played really poorly when Haliburton came into the team, and wasn't a willing distributor/liked sharing the ball-handling duties. Even though it's typical to bad-mouth the star leaving town, I was surprised to see it seemed like a commonly-held view amongst Sacto fans at the time - and certainly shared, on some level, by the Kings FO in order to even green-light the Sabonis trade.

I'm looking forward to next season and seeing the dynamics play out on the court. Winning cures everything, as they say, and hopefully the Spurs can get on with that.

He's pretty outspoken. He doesn't hold much back. I know when he first got to play with wemby the game was on the line and there's an interview where the playw as for wemby and fox told him not to look for him, that the team would live or die by wembys shot.
Think that was kind of representative of him knowing his role next to wemby and then speaking highly of castle and taking on wesley early on kind of seems like he has a thing for taking the young guys under his wing. I think he knows he can't do it alone now, maybe he didn't back then.

Of course he could blow up and ruin it all but he wanted San Antonio specifically. I think hes all in on the functional organization. He went through more head coaches than we have point guards at sac.

[CGD]

So many of those podcasters just love having plenty to talk about and big trades = more content, so its not surprising they love to speculate in that manner. Not to mention, Harper being on a slower development track with the Spurs (behind Fox/Castle/Vassell) isn't nearly as interesting to them and their product as Harper being on a basement team getting 36 mpg and massive usage. The other side of the coin to the Spurs trading Harper would likely mean a huge name (Giannis for instance) coming to the Spurs which from their POV(content perspective) would also be amazing. It means Spurs are going all in into win now mode.

All of that to say, from a podcaster/content creator POV, the Spurs taking the patient and disciplined development approach just isn't sexy.

Definitely. They also treat Harper as a finished product which he is not.

The real question though Fox and his future. He has to be thinking he’s already on the trade block on two years x

[SpursGenius]

So many of those podcasters just love having plenty to talk about and big trades = more content, so its not surprising they love to speculate in that manner. Not to mention, Harper being on a slower development track with the Spurs (behind Fox/Castle/Vassell) isn't nearly as interesting to them and their product as Harper being on a basement team getting 36 mpg and massive usage. The other side of the coin to the Spurs trading Harper would likely mean a huge name (Giannis for instance) coming to the Spurs which from their POV(content perspective) would also be amazing. It means Spurs are going all in into win now mode.

All of that to say, from a podcaster/content creator POV, the Spurs taking the patient and disciplined development approach just isn't sexy.

win mode now with old KD and Giannis stupid. It would be all or none and high chance of failure with Wemby moving on when we crash and burn trying for one championship

[spursparker9]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FohyGDJK080

Harper taking Lebron over Kobe and acknowledging Lebron's nickname as GOAT.

Is this a red flag guys??

[Mr. Body]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FohyGDJK080

Harper taking Lebron over Kobe and acknowledging Lebron's nickname as GOAT.

Is this a red flag guys??

??

Kobe isn't anywhere near the greatest and of course LeBron is better than him.

[Leetonidas]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FohyGDJK080

Harper taking Lebron over Kobe and acknowledging Lebron's nickname as GOAT.

Is this a red flag guys??

I would be more concerned if he said the opposite. Anyone with a brain that isn't some casual or Kobestan knows that LeBron is a better player

[itzsoweezee]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FohyGDJK080

Harper taking Lebron over Kobe and acknowledging Lebron's nickname as GOAT.

Is this a red flag guys??

Derick Queen being a Dairy Queen monster fits in so many ways

[Blizzardwizard]

HP Basketball (Matt Moore) on Twitter:

"Have heard some weird stuff the last few days about Spurs and Harper, curious to see where this goes. Probably just with the Spurs drafting him but I'm curious..."

not sure how many people consider Matt Moore a true insider but interesting nonetheless.


he was quoting a (paywalled) rafael barlowe article which says that, while agents and NBA front offices expect SA to take harper, scouts are still "split". his quote from a scout on that read more like speculation than actual solid intel though.


also said that spurs/giannis "keeps coming up in league circles" then quotes an unnamed projected lottery pick's father about the bucks expressing interest in his son despite not having a first-round pick.

[SpursFan86]

HP Basketball (Matt Moore) on Twitter:

"Have heard some weird stuff the last few days about Spurs and Harper, curious to see where this goes. Probably just with the Spurs drafting him but I'm curious..."

not sure how many people consider Matt Moore a true insider but interesting nonetheless.


he was quoting a (paywalled) rafael barlowe article which says that, while agents and NBA front offices expect SA to take harper, scouts are still "split". his quote from a scout on that read more like speculation than actual solid intel though.


also said that spurs/giannis "keeps coming up in league circles" then quotes an unnamed projected lottery pick's father about the bucks expressing interest in his son despite not having a first-round pick.

I’m not sure I’m buying it but interesting nevertheless. I suspect there will be a ton of smoke and deception over the next 3 weeks with all the talks of this being one of the craziest offseasons in memory.

[mo7888]

HP Basketball (Matt Moore) on Twitter:

"Have heard some weird stuff the last few days about Spurs and Harper, curious to see where this goes. Probably just with the Spurs drafting him but I'm curious..."

not sure how many people consider Matt Moore a true insider but interesting nonetheless.


he was quoting a (paywalled) rafael barlowe article which says that, while agents and NBA front offices expect SA to take harper, scouts are still "split". his quote from a scout on that read more like speculation than actual solid intel though.


also said that spurs/giannis "keeps coming up in league circles" then quotes an unnamed projected lottery pick's father about the bucks expressing interest in his son despite not having a first-round pick.

I just don't think we're going after Giannis, but if we did we'd also have to have a couple other deals in place to add shooting. It would be the signal that the FO thinks we're ready to compete for a title next year and I don't think we're that close myself.

[exstatic]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FohyGDJK080

Harper taking Lebron over Kobe and acknowledging Lebron's nickname as GOAT.

Is this a red flag guys??
Recency bias. Kid possibly never saw Kobe play live. He’s actually wrong either way, as MJ is the GOAT.

[John B]

Recency bias. Kid possibly never saw Kobe play live. He’s actually wrong either way, as MJ is the GOAT.

These kids were not born yet to watch Kobe at prime, and only knows LeBron. I don’t even have LeBron on top 5 let alone the GOAT. But surprisingly Harper didn’t pick MJ. I’m sure he watched a lot of his dad’s old films with the Bulls.

[spurraider21]

I’m not sure I’m buying it but interesting nevertheless. I suspect there will be a ton of smoke and deception over the next 3 weeks with all the talks of this being one of the craziest offseasons in memory.
the question marks about how the backcourt pieces would fit together are legitimate, but its not like there is another prospect who is in the same tier as harper in this draft, so its not really worth the consideration. it just makes some trade more likely, but theres also no need to make an immediate move until we figure out how these guys actually play. can castle scale down his offensive role, play high level defense, and improve his efficiency? how well can Harper defend 2's? how well can Harper/Fox play off each other?

take some time to figure it out, and make a trade later if necessary

[SpursFan86]

the question marks about how the backcourt pieces would fit together are legitimate, but its not like there is another prospect who is in the same tier as harper in this draft, so its not really worth the consideration. it just makes some trade more likely, but theres also no need to make an immediate move until we figure out how these guys actually play. can castle scale down his offensive role, play high level defense, and improve his efficiency? how well can Harper defend 2's? how well can Harper/Fox play off each other?

take some time to figure it out, and make a trade later if necessary

Right - I suspect a lot of the “chatter” about the Spurs not taking Harper or trying to trade out of the pick are purely based on outsiders looking at the fit with Fox/Castle rather than actual credible sources. To your point the concerns are valid, but you don’t pass up on a prospect of Harper’s caliber because of that sort of thing.

Only way I see SA going another direction is if 1) they don’t view Harper in that light (not likely IMO, clear consensus seems to be that he’s a legit #1 caliber guy) or 2) they manage to work out a deal for Giannis (also not likely). For now I still think the Spurs drafting Harper and keeping him is far and away the most likely outcome.

[Mr. Body]

As with Flagg and the Mavs, there's a good chance to me that Harper does not put on a Spurs uniform next season. It's pretty slim for Flagg, but a larger chance for Harper. Not that things are quiet - that's to be expected - but that the Spurs may see value somewhere else. Also, we've skidded past the point, but the Castle-Fox-Harper fit is really, really bad. Maybe not immediately, but within like a year it's going to be a major problem.

[Mitch Cumsteen]

I don't really get the Fox age discussion like he's Chris Paul or something. He's 27, just entering his prime. He's all of 200 days older than SGA. Nobody is talking about SGA aging out of Oklahoma.

[scott]

As with Flagg and the Mavs, there's a good chance to me that Harper does not put on a Spurs uniform next season. It's pretty slim for Flagg, but a larger chance for Harper. Not that things are quiet - that's to be expected - but that the Spurs may see value somewhere else. Also, we've skidded past the point, but the Castle-Fox-Harper fit is really, really bad. Maybe not immediately, but within like a year it's going to be a major problem.

I agree. That's why I keep trying to throw out Harper scenarios. It's not that I want to trade Harper... but I'm curious what other folks would consider a good trade. Most fans (not just SpursTalk) have already internalized the idea of Harper being a Spur and have put a mental block to the idea of trading him for anything... so it's kind of a difficult to have a rational conversation with people on this topic... but I think you are spot on.

Chance of Flagg Traded < Chance of Harper Traded <<< 50%

[Dejounte]

I don't really get the Fox age discussion like he's Chris Paul or something. He's 27, just entering his prime. He's all of 200 days older than SGA. Nobody is talking about SGA aging out of Oklahoma.

spurstalk has a teen fetish

[mo7888]

I agree. That's why I keep trying to throw out Harper scenarios. It's not that I want to trade Harper... but I'm curious what other folks would consider a good trade. Most fans (not just SpursTalk) have already internalized the idea of Harper being a Spur and have put a mental block to the idea of trading him for anything... so it's kind of a difficult to have a rational conversation with people on this topic... but I think you are spot on.

Chance of Flagg Traded < Chance of Harper Traded <<< 50%

If you're throwing out scenarios, should we also throw out Castle scenarios? Harper has a higher ceiling I'd think and Castle has the added PR in a trade because of the ROTY to make it easier for an opposing GM to take him.

[scott]

If you're throwing out scenarios, should we also throw out Castle scenarios? Harper has a higher floor I'd think and Castle has the added PR in a trade because of the ROTY to make it easier for an opposing GM to take him.

I started the one thread asking people what they'd realistically require to trade Harper or Castle... and most of the responses were... not all that realistic, so I gave up :lol

But I agree with you, we should have an open mind to both. I love Castle... but I'd probably keep Harper over him.

[mo7888]

I started the one thread asking people what they'd realistically require to trade Harper or Castle... and most of the responses were... not all that realistic, so I gave up :lol

But I agree with you, we should have an open mind to both. I love Castle... but I'd probably keep Harper over him.

I agree. I'd think Castle could bring #3 straight up or combine him with KJ and get #8 + Cam if we wanted.

Before everyone gets their panties in a wad im not suggesting we should necessarily do either, I'm just talking about what I think his value is.

[scott]

I agree. I'd think Castle could bring #3 straight up or combine him with KJ and get #8 + Cam if we wanted.

Before everyone gets their panties in a wad im not suggesting we should necessarily do either, I'm just talking about what I think his value is.

It makes discussing these things tough, because the two options for most people are they have unreasonable expectations... or they get their panties in a wad and start name calling :lol

[mo7888]

It makes discussing these things tough, because the two options for most people are they have unreasonable expectations... or they get their panties in a wad and start name calling :lol

True dat

[LeBowen]

I agree. That's why I keep trying to throw out Harper scenarios. It's not that I want to trade Harper... but I'm curious what other folks would consider a good trade. Most fans (not just SpursTalk) have already internalized the idea of Harper being a Spur and have put a mental block to the idea of trading him for anything... so it's kind of a difficult to have a rational conversation with people on this topic... but I think you are spot on.

Chance of Flagg Traded < Chance of Harper Traded <<< 50%

If Wright thinks Harper is as good as advertised, there's no way he's getting traded because he'd be the perfect point guard to pair with Wemby.
Spurs won't trade Fox because that's not what they do and they'll rather go through a few years of an uncomfortable fit, but you can't trade the player with the highest potential ceiling if you think he'll get there.

Castle is a bad fit shooting wise, but considering what he's shown us this season, I don't think Spurs see him as a detriment to Harper's development, it's just that Fox/Harper/Castle can't all play together, at least not yet and that Jeremy kind of becomes a negative if he can't fix his shot.

[scott]

If Wright thinks Harper is as good as advertised, there's no way he's getting traded because he'd be the perfect point guard to pair with Wemby.
Spurs won't trade Fox because that's not what they do and they'll rather go through a few years of an uncomfortable fit, but you can't trade the player with the highest potential ceiling if you think he'll get there.

Castle is a bad fit shooting wise, but considering what he's shown us this season, I don't think Spurs see him as a detriment to Harper's development, it's just that Fox/Harper/Castle can't all play together, at least not yet and that Jeremy kind of becomes a negative if he can't fix his shot.

You made my point.

[RC_Drunkford]

Dylan Harper has been going through the pre-draft process and has already worked out for multiple teams, not limiting the possibility to the Spurs being his only landing spot. (https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest) “The pre-draft process for me has been going great,” Harper told Hoops HQ. “I’ve had a few workouts and I’m just getting my body in shape and making sure I’m just sharper for the next level because everyone is so good and I’m just trying to get in that right mindset and right conditioning so I’m ready.”


Another buzzy name tied to the Spurs is Maluach, a 7-foot-2 center out of Duke. The Spurs could essentially be building twin towers with Wembanyama and Maluach and there is an appeal to drafting another young big that can learn and grow alongside Wembanyama. It would be very unlikely that the Spurs would shock everyone and take Maluach with the No. 2 pick but they could be looking to trade down or package the No. 14 pick for a shot at the talented center.

[RC_Drunkford]

HP Basketball (Matt Moore) on Twitter:

"Have heard some weird stuff the last few days about Spurs and Harper, curious to see where this goes. Probably just with the Spurs drafting him but I'm curious..."

not sure how many people consider Matt Moore a true insider but interesting nonetheless.


he was quoting a (paywalled) rafael barlowe article which says that, while agents and NBA front offices expect SA to take harper, scouts are still "split". his quote from a scout on that read more like speculation than actual solid intel though.


also said that spurs/giannis "keeps coming up in league circles" then quotes an unnamed projected lottery pick's father about the bucks expressing interest in his son despite not having a first-round pick.

Woj, Stein, David Aldridge and a bunch of other reporters follow him, so I'd assume he has some credibility.

[scottspurs]

Where is this information coming from? It sounds like the Spurs would have strongly considered Clingan had he made it to 8 last season so kind of checks out.

[baseline bum]

I agree. That's why I keep trying to throw out Harper scenarios. It's not that I want to trade Harper... but I'm curious what other folks would consider a good trade. Most fans (not just SpursTalk) have already internalized the idea of Harper being a Spur and have put a mental block to the idea of trading him for anything... so it's kind of a difficult to have a rational conversation with people on this topic... but I think you are spot on.

Chance of Flagg Traded < Chance of Harper Traded <<< 50%

It's hard to see a reasonable trade for Harper other than as the centerpiece of a move for Giannis if he tells the Bucks he wants out. The trade down options don't really make any sense because Edgecombe and Tre Johnson are pretty poor fits and Ace Bailey shows monster bust potential and also isn't the fit we thought he'd be a month ago when he was thought to be 6'10". Fears is a much worse fit than Harper so scratch him too. When it comes to forwards outside Ace you're talking Essengue, Bryant, Newell, Queen, just an enormous step down in talent from Harper if you're chasing fit (not even considering CMB with his Sochan esque shooting). And they're guys who might still be there at 14 anyways. In the second apron era a guy who looks to be the next Cade Cunningham or James Harden on a cost controlled rookie contract is tremendously valuable and only second in value to an established superstar in his prime. In the NBA you usually win the trade when you get the best player so it's hard to see a deal that makes sense for just adding depth to the Spurs. I think the Spurs have to go into this with the idea that Harper will be groomed to be the team's PG and then whoever of Fox or Castle doesn't fit is who you trade in 3 years.

I don't think I'd trade Harper for Giannis mostly because it locks the Spurs into paying three high max contracts two years from now but I wouldn't be mad or anything if it happened since Giannis is a monster. But anything short of Giannis would be crazy unless there is some other top 5 player available (I guess always a possibility seeing the way Luka got moved).

[RC_Drunkford]

Where is this information coming from? It sounds like the Spurs would have strongly considered Clingan had he made it to 8 last season so kind of checks out.


I had an interesting conversation recently with the father of a projected lottery pick who told me the Bucks have been doing background work on his son—even though they don’t pick until 47 (https://www.nbabigboard.com/p/nba-trade-buzz-draft-intel-plus-prospects?r=nm05o&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web). The father explained: Milwaukee doesn’t have a pick in the first round, not even in the top 10. But they’re asking about my son and wanting to know a little bit more information. They’ve called, and I don’t understand why they have interest unless they plan on making a move.

https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest
(https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest)

[MannyIsGod]

It makes discussing these things tough, because the two options for most people are they have unreasonable expectations... or they get their panties in a wad and start name calling :lol

I just don't think there are any good trade scenarios that are realistic. Would I trade Harper and filler straight up for Giannis? Yes, in a heartbeat. Would I trade a lot of draft capital including harper and the salary filler needed for Giannis? That starts to get harder to swallow because then I don't know what the Spurs have. I think the Giannis Wemby pairing for 4-5 years would be insanely dominant and I am not opposed to the Spurs pursuing it, but I have no idea to calculate a good trade in that realm. There are not many other players that are REALISTIC gets that I would want to trade Harper for so it just seems llike a dead end discussion topic. There are plenty of players I'd like to have over Harper, but I don't think many of them are going to be available.

[MannyIsGod]

It's hard to see a reasonable trade for Harper other than as the centerpiece of a move for Giannis if he tells the Bucks he wants out. The trade down options don't really make any sense because Edgecombe and Tre Johnson are pretty poor fits and Ace Bailey shows monster bust potential and also isn't the fit we thought he'd be a month ago when he was thought to be 6'10". Fears is a much worse fit than Harper so scratch him too. When it comes to forwards outside Ace you're talking Essengue, Bryant, Newell, Queen, just an enormous step down in talent from Harper if you're chasing fit (not even considering CMB with his Sochan esque shooting). And they're guys who might still be there at 14 anyways. In the second apron era a guy who looks to be the next Cade Cunningham or James Harden on a cost controlled rookie contract is tremendously valuable and only second in value to an established superstar in his prime. In the NBA you usually win the trade when you get the best player so it's hard to see a deal that makes sense for just adding depth to the Spurs. I think the Spurs have to go into this with the idea that Harper will be groomed to be the team's PG and then whoever of Fox or Castle doesn't fit is who you trade in 3 years.

I don't think I'd trade Harper for Giannis mostly because it locks the Spurs into paying three high max contracts two years from now but I wouldn't be mad or anything if it happened since Giannis is a monster. But anything short of Giannis would be crazy unless there is some other top 5 player available (I guess always a possibility seeing the way Luka got moved).

Yeah exactly this. There's just no other scenario that is realistic that even makes a bit of sense, IMO. Like yeahm, I'd hapily move Harper for Anthony Edwards but lol?

[scottspurs]

https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest
(https://www.hoopshq.com/nba-draft/nba-draft-intel-latest)
Oh damn Krysten Peek is definitely someone that is plugged in and would hear things. A 3 guard lineup with Maluach and Wemby would be hilarious. It would either be genius or fail miserably. They could also just stay at 14 and take Raynaud if they want that sort of lineup. Spurs trading up is definitely not being discussed enough compared to trading back.

If trading back I would want to target a team that will be bad next season. If trading up you will be looking at teams that may not be sure of what to do with their picks. Hornets, Pelicans, Rockets and Blazers could all fit that criteria.

[scott]

It's hard to see a reasonable trade for Harper other than as the centerpiece of a move for Giannis if he tells the Bucks he wants out. The trade down options don't really make any sense because Edgecombe and Tre Johnson are pretty poor fits and Ace Bailey shows monster bust potential and also isn't the fit we thought he'd be a month ago when he was thought to be 6'10". Fears is a much worse fit than Harper so scratch him too. When it comes to forwards outside Ace you're talking Essengue, Bryant, Newell, Queen, just an enormous step down in talent from Harper if you're chasing fit (not even considering CMB with his Sochan esque shooting). And they're guys who might still be there at 14 anyways. In the second apron era a guy who looks to be the next Cade Cunningham or James Harden on a cost controlled rookie contract is tremendously valuable and only second in value to an established superstar in his prime. In the NBA you usually win the trade when you get the best player so it's hard to see a deal that makes sense for just adding depth to the Spurs. I think the Spurs have to go into this with the idea that Harper will be groomed to be the team's PG and then whoever of Fox or Castle doesn't fit is who you trade in 3 years.

I don't think I'd trade Harper for Giannis mostly because it locks the Spurs into paying three high max contracts two years from now but I wouldn't be mad or anything if it happened since Giannis is a monster. But anything short of Giannis would be crazy unless there is some other top 5 player available (I guess always a possibility seeing the way Luka got moved).

You've locked yourself into a very specific mindset... one the Spurs may or may not share. This is what I'm talking about with the mental block Spurs fans have self imposed. You can't see these scenarios, because you've bought fully into a certain mindset where you believe certain things about Harper and other prospects. You have to put your own evaluation aside and ask yourself if the Spurs come to a different evaluation, what moves might look appealing to them? There are also a number of other trade options that live somewhere between trading down and trading for Giannis. They don't look appealing if you are fully bought into the idea that Harper is the next Cade or Harden on a cost controlled rookie contract... but again, you have to put that aside for a moment, because the Spurs may not view it that way.

Ultimately, I am very high on Harper and hope we take him. The only scenario I'd really want instead is some dream scenario where we land Flagg. But I also understand that is based on my opinion of Harper, which the Spurs may not share. So tell yourself... you don't like Harper. You think he's an overrated prospect... not even that he'll be a bust, but that he's not really a tier above Ace, VJ, Tre, etc. In that scenario, what are some trade realistic trade scenarios that now look appealing with that in mind?

An example... I've thrown out #2, Vassell and Keldon for #7, TMIII and Herb. Spurs fans immediately say no. But do you know who also says no to that? Pelicans fans, because that's actually a pretty huge haul. It looks unappealing when you hold Harper in the light of a surefire All NBA PG... but if you don't believe that, then that package actually looks really damn good. Since I believe in Harper, I wouldn't want to do that deal... but if I were the Spurs GM and everyone in the organization was telling me they don't evaluate Harper that high... then that deal starts to look pretty good.

This is my point - Spurs fans (and honestly fans of all teams) can't see behind their own personal evaluations of guys. But our evaluations don't matter, because we don't get a vote. So... if the team wasn't as high as "consensus" on Harper... what trade would make you happy? Alternatively... if the team decided that Fox/Harper/Castle absolutely cannot work and we'd be better off moving one of Castle or Harper... what would you do?

They are all just hypotheticals.

[scott]

I just don't think there are any good trade scenarios that are realistic. Would I trade Harper and filler straight up for Giannis? Yes, in a heartbeat. Would I trade a lot of draft capital including harper and the salary filler needed for Giannis? That starts to get harder to swallow because then I don't know what the Spurs have. I think the Giannis Wemby pairing for 4-5 years would be insanely dominant and I am not opposed to the Spurs pursuing it, but I have no idea to calculate a good trade in that realm. There are not many other players that are REALISTIC gets that I would want to trade Harper for so it just seems llike a dead end discussion topic. There are plenty of players I'd like to have over Harper, but I don't think many of them are going to be available.

See my previously reply to BB.

[SpursFan86]

I’ll be pretty pissed if we trade Harper for anything besides a current all-star caliber player tbh. Unless we get some crazy haul like a top 10 pick this year + multiple unprotected FRPs from a team that we feel good about being shitty for years to come.

Still think this is all mostly smokescreens.

[Degoat]

I just don’t think Giannis is the play, we do that we’re going all in with a new young coach and cashing in a big part of our assets, that’s not very spursy

[scott]

I’ll be pretty pissed if we trade Harper for anything besides a current all-star caliber player tbh. Unless we get some crazy haul like a top 10 pick this year + multiple unprotected FRPs from a team that we feel good about being shitty for years to come.

Still think this is all mostly smokescreens.

Personally I'd hate to just trade back to collect more picks. That's like cashing in your jackpot winning lottery ticket and using all the money to buy more lottery tickets. Just degenerate gambling addict mentality. I think the trade would definitely have to return a young-ish player approximating the 85% outcome of Harper's expectations (which obviously varies for everyone). Basically... you lock in a high end outcome. You give up a little bit of the upside but you eliminate all of the downside risk (outside of injury or rapid deterioration).

That would be the bare minimum starting point, in my opinion.

If we were for some reason tasked with trading one of Harper or Castle... this is why I'd also prefer to trade Castle. His 85% outcome is lower than Harper's, IMO... though Castle's floor is higher at this point (since Harper is a defending ROY and Harper has yet to play a single minute of NBA basketball).

[baseline bum]

You've locked yourself into a very specific mindset... one the Spurs may or may not share. This is what I'm talking about with the mental block Spurs fans have self imposed. You can't see these scenarios, because you've bought fully into a certain mindset where you believe certain things about Harper and other prospects. You have to put your own evaluation aside and ask yourself if the Spurs come to a different evaluation, what moves might look appealing to them? There are also a number of other trade options that live somewhere between trading down and trading for Giannis. They don't look appealing if you are fully bought into the idea that Harper is the next Cade or Harden on a cost controlled rookie contract... but again, you have to put that aside for a moment, because the Spurs may not view it that way.

Ultimately, I am very high on Harper and hope we take him. The only scenario I'd really want instead is some dream scenario where we land Flagg. But I also understand that is based on my opinion of Harper, which the Spurs may not share. So tell yourself... you don't like Harper. You think he's an overrated prospect... not even that he'll be a bust, but that he's not really a tier above Ace, VJ, Tre, etc. In that scenario, what are some trade realistic trade scenarios that now look appealing with that in mind?

An example... I've thrown out #2, Vassell and Keldon for #7, TMIII and Herb. Spurs fans immediately say no. But do you know who also says no to that? Pelicans fans, because that's actually a pretty huge haul. It looks unappealing when you hold Harper in the light of a surefire All NBA PG... but if you don't believe that, then that package actually looks really damn good. Since I believe in Harper, I wouldn't want to do that deal... but if I were the Spurs GM and everyone in the organization was telling me they don't evaluate Harper that high... then that deal starts to look pretty good.

This is my point - Spurs fans (and honestly fans of all teams) can't see behind their own personal evaluations of guys. But our evaluations don't matter, because we don't get a vote. So... if the team wasn't as high as "consensus" on Harper... what trade would make you happy? Alternatively... if the team decided that Fox/Harper/Castle absolutely cannot work and we'd be better off moving one of Castle or Harper... what would you do?

They are all just hypotheticals.

It's not really my personal evaluation of Harper; it's pretty much the consensus that he's considered the best guard prospect since Cade (not saying he's better than Ant as we know him now but Ant had a lot of questions at the time when drafted). Pelicans fans might say no to that trade but unless the hype about how respected Harper's game is is bullshit the Pelicans FO would probably spray their shorts if Brian Wright calls them and makes that offer.

[scott]

It's not really my personal evaluation of Harper; it's pretty much the consensus that he's considered the best guard prospect since Cade (not saying he's better than Ant as we know him now but Ant had a lot of questions at the time when drafted). Pelicans fans might say no to that trade but unless the hype about how respected Harper's game is is bullshit the Pelicans FO would probably spray their shorts if Brian Wright calls them and makes that offer.

But the consensus has become your personal evaluation, which is why you can't see anything else. The Spurs may not share that. The consensus doesn't matter... only the Spurs evaluation does.

And I disagree that the Pelicans FO would automatically accept that offer. They have two young, affordable known entities in hand right now (assume health is not an issue, because that's obviously a real factor). Harper has a theoretical higher ceiling than both... but he also has an actual lower floor than both. There is no such thing as a can't miss prospect, and NOP has direct experience with a highly touted draft pick who has never met a bowl of gumbo or a pornstar he can resist and is a below median expectation player as a result.

There is no hard and fast calculus on this stuff, because it's not like each player has an objective rating, ceiling, floor, probability of hitting, etc... you gotta take a gamble. But if you had $3 million bucks, and I offered you a one-time-only 40% chance at winning $10 million for it... would you do that? Your EV is $4MM, which is greater than your $3MM... but your mode outcome is you went from having $3MM to having zero. You in?

[spurraider21]

that hypothetical pels package is definitely one i'd strongly consider. you upgrade both spots (murphy > vassell and herb > keldon) and can still use 7 to draft an immediate fit at guard like Kon or Tre if he somehow falls and the team gets quite a bit better quikly. murphy is the same age as vassell but is showing a much more promising trajectory as a player. i do think herb is a bit overrated (doesnt rebound that well, is overrated as shooter based on one very strong year on fairly low volume), but is a high iq player and good passer while being an incredibly versatile defender. its worth the consideration

you then tack on one of those defensive wings at 14 and you start having really good depth

Fox - Castle
Kon - Champagnie
Murphy - Barnes - Bryant (or fleming at PF)
Herb - Sochan
Wemby - FA

or alternatively

Fox - Wesley
Castle - Kon
Murphy - Barnes
Herb - Sochan
Wemby - FA

there are good ways to make these lineups work because none of Murphy/Herb are poor defenders or complete non-shooters (even if herb's is a bit overblown). i dont think this is a slam dunk to make the trade because if Harper ends up a legit all star like many think he is destined to be, could still easily be seen as losing the trade

[baseline bum]

But the consensus has become your personal evaluation, which is why you can't see anything else. The Spurs may not share that. The consensus doesn't matter... only the Spurs evaluation does.

And I disagree that the Pelicans FO would automatically accept that offer. They have two young, affordable known entities in hand right now (assume health is not an issue, because that's obviously a real factor). Harper has a theoretical higher ceiling than both... but he also has an actual lower floor than both. There is no such thing as a can't miss prospect, and NOP has direct experience with a highly touted draft pick who has never met a bowl of gumbo or a pornstar he can resist and is a below median expectation player as a result.

There is no hard and fast calculus on this stuff, because it's not like each player has an objective rating, ceiling, floor, probability of hitting, etc... you gotta take a gamble. But if you had $3 million bucks, and I offered you a one-time-only 40% chance at winning $10 million for it... would you do that? Your EV is $4MM, which is greater than your $3MM... but your mode outcome is you went from having $3MM to having zero. You in?

Of course I wouldn't do that, if I had an easily liquid $3 million I'd probably retire and move out of the shithole US to one of the first world democracies overseas and that's worth way more than a 40% shot at converting to $10 million. Bad analogy, you're talking enormous opportunity cost.

Back to the NBA, you're not considering the outsized value superstars have in this league where a prime Harden was worth way more to a franchise than 35% of the cap. Trey Murphy is never going to be the guy who takes you to the WCF and is much much easier and cheaper to find than someone who can. It's not my evaluation, it's the evaluation of scouts and league executives that Harper has a good chance to be that guy. There isn't exactly a ton of opportunity cost in trading role players who lead your team to 21 wins, and Murphy had a really disappointing season defensively on top of that. A lot of downside in trading for him and perhaps finding out that instead of being Stephen Jackson he's more Antoine Carr.

[SpursFan86]

It’s pretty simple:

If the Spurs FO are believers of Harper as a talent/prospect and view him like most other scouts, then I don’t think you can trade him for anything less than a current already-proven star.

If the Spurs FO don’t think he’s really that caliber, then of course you see what others are willing to offer and make a trade if someone else gives up the farm for him.

When I talk about not having any interest in trading him, it’s because I’m just going with the somewhat clear consensus that he’s a future multiple all-NBA type prospect.

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

Draft harper or get Giannini

anything else is probably garbage

More interested in turning 14, vassel/kj/sochan, future firsts into Durant tbh

[DPG21920]

Draft harper or get Giannini

anything else is probably garbage

More interested in turning 14, vassel/kj/sochan, future firsts into Durant tbh

Agree. I can live with drafting Harper. I can live with trading for Giannis or another star. I would not love just a trade back to take a lesser prospect for a pick or two extra in future etc..

[CGD]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FohyGDJK080

Harper taking Lebron over Kobe and acknowledging Lebron's nickname as GOAT.

Is this a red flag guys??

Give him the bag now!

[MannyIsGod]

See my previously reply to BB.

I mean ok but imo that just means we're spending time talking about trades I think are shit and that doesn't seem like something I care to spend time doing. Of course if the Spurs don't value Harper as high they might trade him.easier but I just think that would be dumb.

[scott]

I mean ok but imo that just means we're spending time talking about trades I think are shit and that doesn't seem like something I care to spend time doing. Of course if the Spurs don't value Harper as high they might trade him.easier but I just think that would be dumb.

You're the guy who responded.

You also thought Keldon was a sure fire All Star. So maybe you should spend more time considering other possible outcomes?

[MannyIsGod]

You're the guy who responded.

You also thought Keldon was a sure fire All Star. So maybe you should spend more time considering other possible outcomes?

You have two examples of me being wrong Scott. This one, which you now exaggerate into "a sure fire all star" which are words I never said and the Landon Donovan being a lock for a usmnt squad. The fact that these are your go to examples of me being wrong when I disagree with you are telling. I was wrong about Keldon, bit I've been right about Spurs rookies and young players far more often than I've been wrong (go read my draft day kawhi comments) so maybe you should follow my lead instead of acting like no one wanting to spend time discussiing the spurs trading away their best predraft prospect for decades outside of wemby means they are unable to consider the alternative. It's just not interesting. By all means have at it though.

Anyway enjoy the hypotheticals with no proof that they are likely at all I guess. You'll be really prepared if the Spurs go full stupid and trade Harper for DeMar or whatever.

[scott]

You have two examples of me being wrong Scott. This one, which you now exaggerate into "a sure fire all star" which are words I never said and the Landon Donovan being a lock for a usmnt squad. The fact that these are your go to examples of me being wrong when I disagree with you are telling. I was wrong about Keldon, bit I've been right about Spurs rookies and young players far more often than I've been wrong (go read my draft day kawhi comments) so maybe you should follow my lead instead of acting like no one wanting to spend time discussiing the spurs trading away their best predraft prospect for decades outside of wemby means they are unable to consider the alternative. It's just not interesting. By all means have at it though.

Anyway enjoy the hypotheticals with no proof that they are likely at all I guess. You'll be really prepared if the Spurs go full stupid and trade Harper for DeMar or whatever.

I'm sure you've been wrong plenty of times - just like every single member of this site (including myself). I don't catalog them, because they honestly don't matter. I pointed out this example, because I knew it would trigger you into a defensive reply about how right you are all the time... which was the point I was discussing with another poster when you decided to chime in. You, just like most fans of sports in general, are blinded by your own bias and it leads people to say things like "I can't see any scenarios where we do [thing]" right before [thing] happens. And it happens most often with trades. The "Bonner and Blair for [star player]" meme is grounded in reality... its the kind of shit fans do day in and day out.

If you're not interested... don't reply. It's pretty easy. Some folks enjoy discussing the full range of outcomes, and if your specific opinion is missing from the discourse... it will be okay.

[MannyIsGod]

I'm sure you've been wrong plenty of times - just like every single member of this site (including myself). I don't catalog them, because they honestly don't matter. I pointed out this example, because I knew it would trigger you into a defensive reply about how right you are all the time... which was the point I was discussing with another poster when you decided to chime in. You, just like most fans of sports in general, are blinded by your own bias and it leads people to say things like "I can't see any scenarios where we do [thing]" right before [thing] happens. And it happens most often with trades. The "Bonner and Blair for [star player]" meme is grounded in reality... its the kind of shit fans do day in and day out.

If you're not interested... don't reply. It's pretty easy. Some folks enjoy discussing the full range of outcomes, and if your specific opinion is missing from the discourse... it will be okay.

You're missing the point. Your categorization of me and others who don't want to talk about that particular thing is what is wrong here. I never once said that there are no scenarios where the Spurs trade Harper. I agree with you that if they don't value him highly then they might trade him in what I would consider to be a stupid and poor trade. I don't care if you discuss it, but what you continue to do is act like those of us who don't want to discuss it are missing some wisdom or open mindedness because we're clouded by bias. No dude, we just don't think its likely and if it does happen it will be a giant disappointment. That is not the same as it can't happen. YOU are the one who is characterizing others in a weird way simply because they don't want to talk about these pretty shitty scenarios. I also don't want to talk about the Spurs trading Wemby in a Luka style trade. Is that bias?

I expect better from you, Scott. This is Mr. Body level shit from you and really weird overall.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1930038581101310448

[ginobilized]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1930038581101310448

Great news! Sounds like a bright kid.

[ginobilized]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1930038581101310448

Great news! Sounds like a bright kid.

[scott]

You're missing the point. Your categorization of me and others who don't want to talk about that particular thing is what is wrong here. I never once said that there are no scenarios where the Spurs trade Harper.

Then I wasn't talking about you, so what's your problem?


I agree with you that if they don't value him highly then they might trade him in what I would consider to be a stupid and poor trade.

Perfect, thanks.


I don't care if you discuss it, but what you continue to do is act like those of us who don't want to discuss it are missing some wisdom or open mindedness because we're clouded by bias.

"Continue to do"? I made a single comment to Mo about it, and then you jumped in. But you are clouded by bias. It's evident in most of your posts. But, most people are.


No dude, we just don't think its likely and if it does happen it will be a giant disappointment. That is not the same as it can't happen.

There are people who literally post "The Spurs aren't trading #2". You may not be one of those people, but they exist (some of them have even responded just in the last few pages!). Consider for a moment that maybe I was referring to them and that the world doesn't revolve around you.


YOU are the one who is characterizing others in a weird way simply because they don't want to talk about these pretty shitty scenarios. I also don't want to talk about the Spurs trading Wemby in a Luka style trade. Is that bias?

Mo's comment: "Before everyone get's their panties in a wad"

Me: "Yeah, it makes these convos tough because people get their panties in a wad"

You: [Panties completely in a wad]


I expect better from you, Scott. This is Mr. Body level shit from you and really weird overall.

Panties in a wad.

[baseline bum]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1930038581101310448

Nice, that did not sound like some bullshit PR answer, he legit looked excited about the chance. After seeing that I'm in the do not trade period camp, not even for Giannis.

[LeBowen]

We got LMA's I mean spiritual successor.

[ace3g]

https://x.com/mcfNBA/status/1930018428196401441

[RC_Drunkford]

would be straight lunacy to trade #2

[The Truth #6]

I see Scott providing content to discuss. I don't want the Spurs to do a dumb move, but they have a history of doing odd moves for sure.

[poopbox]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1930038581101310448

Kind of proves the "he doesn't want to be here" crowds point. The only player he mentioned was Victor. No mention of anyone else or the team itself. :rollin

[exstatic]

Kind of proves the "he doesn't want to be here" crowds point. The only player he mentioned was Victor. No mention of anyone else or the team itself. :rollin
He clearly mentioned positionless basketball, and I don’t think he was talking about Wemby.

[BacktoBasics]

I'm more excited about Harper than I would be Flagg.

[Ice009]

Kind of proves the "he doesn't want to be here" crowds point. The only player he mentioned was Victor. No mention of anyone else or the team itself. :rollin

I don't think he's allowed to mention the team by name before being drafted?

Anyway, if he doesn't want to come here, what do you think is his main reason why? The more I think about it, if it's because of the guys already here like De'Aaron, Steph etc. and if it's because he doesn't want to compete against them, then he's soft and shouldn't be here anyway. If he's a competitor, he'd want to go against those guys in practice, and in my opinion, they'll all make each other better. I think he's more of the latter and will want to compete to form a formidable guard trio.

[poopbox]

I don't think he's allowed to mention the team by name before being drafted?

Anyway, if he doesn't want to come here, what do you think is his main reason why? The more I think about it, if it's because of the guys already here like De'Aaron, Steph etc. and if it's because he doesn't want to compete against them, then he's soft and shouldn't be here anyway. If he's a competitor, he'd want to go against those guys in practice, and in my opinion, they'll all make each other better. I think he's more of the latter and will want to compete to form a formidable guard trio.

1. Money. If everyone progresses into the player spurs fans want them to, Dylan might be the odd man out financially unless the Spurs decide to go deep into the second apron. Fox is going to be on a max. Victor is going to be on a supermax. That leaves one max or near max slot open between Castle and Harper, and Castle gets 1st crack at it since he is eligible for an extension first. No agent want's their player going to a team where his future money is tied to someone else on the team failing. That is the situation Harper runs into if he is picked by San Antonio. For him to maximize his earnings he has to have one of Fox or Castle leave so he can claim that salary slot.

2. Fit. If he comes to San Antonio it is likely he comes off the bench to start. No top 5 player want's to come off the bench. It's almost impossible to win ROY coming off the bench. Flagg won't be coming off the bench in Dallas. Bailey won't be coming off the bench in Philly. Whoever Washington and Utah draft will probably start day one. Harper and his agent is going to look at that and say all these other players are starting but I am / my client is coming off the bench for a team that has been in the lottery for years in a row? How are we supposed to be the future franchise point guard if we are starting out off the bench? Can you think of all the great point guards who came into this league coming off the bench first? Not to many. All that position less basketball talk is just talk and Harper trying to say the right thing. No ball dominant guard want's to play with another ball dominant guard because all it does is take away their touches.

Without the ball in his hands Dylan Harper is doing what for San Antonio exactly? Playing great defense? Probably not most rookie guards are bad defensively. Hitting a lot of catching and shoot 3's? Probably not it's one of the weakest parts of his game? Constantly cutting to the basket for easy points? Probably not all he going to do is run into Sochan he spends most of his time on offense right at the rim.

If you playing him off ball then...where? You cutting Devin or Keldon or Julian minutes back so you can have Harper stand around without the ball?

Then their are the team building and team financials aspect of it. You about to max out a ball dominant guard, while having another ball dominant guard ( remember Castle didn't even want to work out for teams who already had a point guard cause that is how he sees himself), and now you going to draft another one with the number 2 pick? Ball dominant guards are one of the few positions of strength for the Spurs so you going to triple down on that and get another one? Doesn't make much logical sense. I got 250 million and I got the number 2 pick, should I spend both of those things on point guards, cause that is what the Spurs are about to do. Does that make sense to you?

The allowed to mention team name isn't a real thing. Victor mentioned the spurs plenty of times last year. Players in last year and this year draft both mentioned playing for the Spurs and playing with Victor. Agents tell teams not to do it so they don't alienate other teams but there is no real rule that says you can't say what team you want to play for.

Also hilarious that Fox straight up ran Haliburtion out of town in Sacramento and then what happens, he comes to San Antonio where they are about to draft another young guard who he knows is sooner or later going to replace him.

[exstatic]

1. Money. If everyone progresses into the player spurs fans want them to, Dylan might be the odd man out financially unless the Spurs decide to go deep into the second apron. Fox is going to be on a max. Victor is going to be on a supermax. That leaves one max or near max slot open between Castle and Harper, and Castle gets 1st crack at it since he is eligible for an extension first. No agent want's their player going to a team where his future money is tied to someone else on the team failing. That is the situation Harper runs into if he is picked by San Antonio. For him to maximize his earnings he has to have one of Fox or Castle leave so he can claim that salary slot.

2. Fit. If he comes to San Antonio it is likely he comes off the bench to start. No top 5 player want's to come off the bench. It's almost impossible to win ROY coming off the bench. Flagg won't be coming off the bench in Dallas. Bailey won't be coming off the bench in Philly. Whoever Washington and Utah draft will probably start day one. Harper and his agent is going to look at that and say all these other players are starting but I am / my client is coming off the bench for a team that has been in the lottery for years in a row? How are we supposed to be the future franchise point guard if we are starting out off the bench? Can you think of all the great point guards who came into this league coming off the bench first? Not to many. All that position less basketball talk is just talk and Harper trying to say the right thing. No ball dominant guard want's to play with another ball dominant guard because all it does is take away their touches.

Without the ball in his hands Dylan Harper is doing what for San Antonio exactly? Playing great defense? Probably not most rookie guards are bad defensively. Hitting a lot of catching and shoot 3's? Probably not it's one of the weakest parts of his game? Constantly cutting to the basket for easy points? Probably not all he going to do is run into Sochan he spends most of his time on offense right at the rim.

If you playing him off ball then...where? You cutting Devin or Keldon or Julian minutes back so you can have Harper stand around without the ball?

Then their are the team building and team financials aspect of it. You about to max out a ball dominant guard, while having another ball dominant guard ( remember Castle didn't even want to work out for teams who already had a point guard cause that is how he sees himself), and now you going to draft another one with the number 2 pick? Ball dominant guards are one of the few positions of strength for the Spurs so you going to triple down on that and get another one? Doesn't make much logical sense. I got 250 million and I got the number 2 pick, should I spend both of those things on point guards, cause that is what the Spurs are about to do. Does that make sense to you?

The allowed to mention team name isn't a real thing. Victor mentioned the spurs plenty of times last year. Players in last year and this year draft both mentioned playing for the Spurs and playing with Victor. Agents tell teams not to do it so they don't alienate other teams but there is no real rule that says you can't say what team you want to play for.

Also hilarious that Fox straight up ran Haliburtion out of town in Sacramento and then what happens, he comes to San Antonio where they are about to draft another young guard who he knows is sooner or later going to replace him.

Fox isn’t the alpha here, to be running off players. He’s also not a long term piece. If both young guards work out, PATFO will sit down with Klutch and find a landing place for him in four years or so.

[Ariel]

Supposedly Harper is working with multiple teams. Not that there's anything wrong with it, it's probably the smart thing to do, to keep options open, but if anything I'm getting the sense he'd prefer to go elsewhere, regardless of his very politically correct speech. His father's tweets are very telling also. I'm guessing he wants to kick-start his career as a big fish in a little pond, I'm not sure landing KD bodes well for this. Not saying Spurs should curtail their options around him, but this is something to watch I think.

[scott]

1. Money. If everyone progresses into the player spurs fans want them to, Dylan might be the odd man out financially unless the Spurs decide to go deep into the second apron. Fox is going to be on a max. Victor is going to be on a supermax. That leaves one max or near max slot open between Castle and Harper, and Castle gets 1st crack at it since he is eligible for an extension first. No agent want's their player going to a team where his future money is tied to someone else on the team failing. That is the situation Harper runs into if he is picked by San Antonio. For him to maximize his earnings he has to have one of Fox or Castle leave so he can claim that salary slot.

2. Fit. If he comes to San Antonio it is likely he comes off the bench to start. No top 5 player want's to come off the bench. It's almost impossible to win ROY coming off the bench. Flagg won't be coming off the bench in Dallas. Bailey won't be coming off the bench in Philly. Whoever Washington and Utah draft will probably start day one. Harper and his agent is going to look at that and say all these other players are starting but I am / my client is coming off the bench for a team that has been in the lottery for years in a row? How are we supposed to be the future franchise point guard if we are starting out off the bench? Can you think of all the great point guards who came into this league coming off the bench first? Not to many. All that position less basketball talk is just talk and Harper trying to say the right thing. No ball dominant guard want's to play with another ball dominant guard because all it does is take away their touches.

Without the ball in his hands Dylan Harper is doing what for San Antonio exactly? Playing great defense? Probably not most rookie guards are bad defensively. Hitting a lot of catching and shoot 3's? Probably not it's one of the weakest parts of his game? Constantly cutting to the basket for easy points? Probably not all he going to do is run into Sochan he spends most of his time on offense right at the rim.

If you playing him off ball then...where? You cutting Devin or Keldon or Julian minutes back so you can have Harper stand around without the ball?

Then their are the team building and team financials aspect of it. You about to max out a ball dominant guard, while having another ball dominant guard ( remember Castle didn't even want to work out for teams who already had a point guard cause that is how he sees himself), and now you going to draft another one with the number 2 pick? Ball dominant guards are one of the few positions of strength for the Spurs so you going to triple down on that and get another one? Doesn't make much logical sense. I got 250 million and I got the number 2 pick, should I spend both of those things on point guards, cause that is what the Spurs are about to do. Does that make sense to you?

The allowed to mention team name isn't a real thing. Victor mentioned the spurs plenty of times last year. Players in last year and this year draft both mentioned playing for the Spurs and playing with Victor. Agents tell teams not to do it so they don't alienate other teams but there is no real rule that says you can't say what team you want to play for.

Also hilarious that Fox straight up ran Haliburtion out of town in Sacramento and then what happens, he comes to San Antonio where they are about to draft another young guard who he knows is sooner or later going to replace him.

People will scoff at you, but the money aspect is legit. I've said this before... but we can't forget that this is these dude's job. They want to maximize their earnings, just like most other human beings on this planet. No high end player wants to go to a situation where their possible career earnings could face obstacles. It's easy for us as fans to say "take the BPA and figure out later" (which is the right approach from a fan and team POV), but we need to understand that we're talking about a human being who has his own financial interests to look out for. He isn't here to "figure it out later" - every moment matters and he needs to figure it out now. There are contract and sponsor dollars at stake, and we can't hold it against guys for considering that... the same way I don't hold it against my employees who ask for a raise or pursue other career opportunities.

People will respond with some shit like "they're already making millions... they are just greedy" but fuck that noise. These guys should try and maximize their earnings window while they can. Yeah, it's nice and helpful when a guy leaves a little money on the table for the team... but I absolutely do not blame them one bit when they don't.

[RC_Drunkford]

Like I said in another thread:

the Spurs might think that breaking the #2 pick up into 2 top 10 picks (8 and 10) plus future Knicks picks while also being able to keep Vassell, could be the move instead of drafting Harper.

[mo7888]

Like I said in another thread:

the Spurs might think that breaking the #2 pick up into 2 top 10 picks (8 and 10) plus future Knicks picks while also being able to keep Vassell, could be the move instead of drafting Harper.

This is all starting to become a blur.... how would Brooklyn be able to give us 8 & 10?

[MannyIsGod]

Like I said in another thread:

the Spurs might think that breaking the #2 pick up into 2 top 10 picks (8 and 10) plus future Knicks picks while also being able to keep Vassell, could be the move instead of drafting Harper.

If this is truly what the Spurs think then we are royally fucked because this would be monumentally stupid.

I'm not sure its likely that Harper comes off the bench at all. If he's good enough to win ROY against Flagg, then he's definitely not coming off the bench for long.

If any of those things you listed are an issue for Harper to the point he lets the Spurs know about it, that is going to be a giant red flag and we'll dodge something. Nothing about the kid and his history make me think that is the case, at all. You guys realize he went to Rutgers, right? Does that sound like a kid who is primarily concerned about money or winning awards? He's also not just a random kid coming up from a family with no money. Maybe he's already thinking his second contract, but given that the kid didn't go somewhere to make as much as possible in one year of NIL and coming from an NBA family doesn't make me think that's the case.

[baseline bum]

would be straight lunacy to trade #2

Yeah to me the only way I could have entertained trading him was if he was if he didn't want to be here because of Steph and De'Aaron. But he looked pretty fucking excited about playing here in that interview posted so those concerns are completely out the window. Just draft the man and if the three initiators lineup isn't working in 2-3 years then you make trades to better optimize. But damn the upside of having three high end ballhandlers with a finisher like Victor is tantalizing as hell.

[baseline bum]

People will scoff at you, but the money aspect is legit. I've said this before... but we can't forget that this is these dude's job. They want to maximize their earnings, just like most other human beings on this planet. No high end player wants to go to a situation where their possible career earnings could face obstacles. It's easy for us as fans to say "take the BPA and figure out later" (which is the right approach from a fan and team POV), but we need to understand that we're talking about a human being who has his own financial interests to look out for. He isn't here to "figure it out later" - every moment matters and he needs to figure it out now. There are contract and sponsor dollars at stake, and we can't hold it against guys for considering that... the same way I don't hold it against my employees who ask for a raise or pursue other career opportunities.

People will respond with some shit like "they're already making millions... they are just greedy" but fuck that noise. These guys should try and maximize their earnings window while they can. Yeah, it's nice and helpful when a guy leaves a little money on the table for the team... but I absolutely do not blame them one bit when they don't.

I feel like Victor is the trump card here though. Harper has to figure he's got a great shot to be playing for titles in the next 2-3 years and with that comes not only big money contracts but endorsement opportunities too.

[Mr. Body]

If the Spurs realize they've gone from the #8 pick to possibly having like the #8 plus #10 plus future picks, that's an enormous boost from where they were pre-lottery.

And Durant would make things really crowded for a Harper.

But I don't see the value of the #8 and #10 picks being anywhere worth the same. They require a lot of development, too, each rookie.

I don't think it's 100% that the Spurs end up with Harper. (Though working out with teams isn't a big deal. This is a chance to see how other FOs and franchises work.) IMO Durant plus Flagg work far far better than Durant plus Harper.

[exstatic]

Like I said in another thread:

the Spurs might think that breaking the #2 pick up into 2 top 10 picks (8 and 10) plus future Knicks picks while also being able to keep Vassell, could be the move instead of drafting Harper.

Spurs draft for shit in that range, so let’s trade a high pick, which they don’t fumble, for TWO of those shit picks.

[scott]

I feel like Victor is the trump card here though. Harper has to figure he's got a great shot to be playing for titles in the next 2-3 years and with that comes not only big money contracts but endorsement opportunities too.

This is kind of what I was referring to earlier I mentioned earlier when I said it might be hard or Castle for Harper to earn max extensions. There is no 4th or 5th best player on any team that gets a max extension… and it’s probably really tough for a 3rd best player to do it these days. The Spurs are going to lock up Fox and Wemby is obviously the king on this team. It’s reasonable for any player to look at that scenario and see it’s going to be tough to maximize your earning potential in that scenario. It doesn’t mean it’s impossible - like you said, you “just” need to be better than Fox - but Fox is a Top 30 player. It’s not like that’s just an easy thing to do.

If the Spurs get Durant and extend him for two more years… it’s going to be even tougher for these guys to earn those max extensions. It is not super common for teams to have three 20ppg scorers and it is even more rare for them to have four (I think this hasn’t been done since like the 1969-70 season?). If Wemby, KD and Fox are each averaging at or around 20+ ppg, there just isn’t going to be a lot of crumbs left for Castle and Harper… and let’s face it, unless these guys become elite defenders or assist guys… that is what earns contracts. They aren’t going to get a Rookie Max based on potential… just look at the guys who get Rookie Max extensions… they all put up stats.

I don’t know how much of a factor this is in Harper’s thinking… but I wouldn’t fault him (or anyone else) if they were thinking about it.

[scott]

Spurs draft for shit in that range, so let’s trade a high pick, which they don’t fumble, for TWO of those shit picks.

This is what I am (somewhat irrationally) afraid of… drafting Wemby and Castle has given them a false sense of bravado with their drafting and they get cute, thinking they are the smartest guys in the room and we end up fucking this up. Keep it simple, Draft Harper.

[baseline bum]

There is no 4th or 5th best player on any team that gets a max extension…

https://cdn.arizonasports.com/arizonasports/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/GettyImages-1470616619-e1677977835335.jpg

[rankingtear]

He could be good or could be shit, trade down plus 2 future picks is better than a backup PG pouting on your bench.

[tim_duncan_fan]

Haven't been paying attention. What's the latest on Uncle Dennis, er, I mean Daddy Ron?

[scott]

https://cdn.arizonasports.com/arizonasports/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/GettyImages-1470616619-e1677977835335.jpg

Wasn’t the 4th or 5th guy on the Suns when they gave him that extension (he was their second leading scorer and leading rebounder). He was a guy averaging 17/10. And a guy a lot of people on this very website wanted to give the max to as a free agent. If we went back and checked the threads, where would we find your opinion on the matter?

What would Harper or Castle be 1st or 2nd on the team on behind Wemby, Fox and potentially Durant?

[RC_Drunkford]

This is all starting to become a blur.... how would Brooklyn be able to give us 8 & 10?

they are shopping Cam Johnson and #19 for another lottery pick. Reports say they contacted Toronto (#9) and Houston (#10)


If this is truly what the Spurs think then we are royally fucked because this would be monumentally stupid.

I'm not sure its likely that Harper comes off the bench at all. If he's good enough to win ROY against Flagg, then he's definitely not coming off the bench for long.

If any of those things you listed are an issue for Harper to the point he lets the Spurs know about it, that is going to be a giant red flag and we'll dodge something. Nothing about the kid and his history make me think that is the case, at all. You guys realize he went to Rutgers, right? Does that sound like a kid who is primarily concerned about money or winning awards? He's also not just a random kid coming up from a family with no money. Maybe he's already thinking his second contract, but given that the kid didn't go somewhere to make as much as possible in one year of NIL and coming from an NBA family doesn't make me think that's the case.

If he doesn't come off the bench then who does? Steph?

I never said he doesn't want to play here. I said maybe the Spurs view the other scenario as more lucrative. Like I mentioned before, I'm all for drafting Harper. That doesn't mean the Spurs see it the same way.


Spurs draft for shit in that range, so let’s trade a high pick, which they don’t fumble, for TWO of those shit picks.

that's exactly what worries me about the whole thing

[rankingtear]

Lol spurms fans downplaying Scoot 2.0 Sr. comments earlier. His camp is trying to convince any team to trade for him cause he does not want to get buried on the spurms. That is why he is doing this workouts.

[Ditty]

I trust the insider reports that the Spurs are excited about having the opportunity to draft Harper #2 in 3 weeks.

[baseline bum]

Wasn’t the 4th or 5th guy on the Suns when they gave him that extension (he was their second leading scorer and leading rebounder).

You're taking benched in the playoffs Ayton over CP3 in a year he was 9th in MVP voting or over Bridges in a year he narrowly lost the DPOY vote?

[picnroll]

To me picking Harper is a no brainer. First off based on his statements it’s obvious he’d be happy to be in SA. To argue otherwise is fairly ridiculous. The money thing is also a ridiculous arguement. Between Castle and Harper the one who can develop a high level outside shot to complement his game that’s the one who gets paid. If neither develops a good outside shot neither will gets near max. If both develop a shot pick the one you want to trade for a bucket full of draft picks. In the meantime between Fox, Castle you have three long, high level, shot creators and drivers to unbalance the floor, at least two of which you can keep on the floor at most times. That’s two bites at the shooting apple. Sign me up for that problem.

[rascal]

He could be good or could be shit, trade down plus 2 future picks is better than a backup PG pouting on your bench.

You don't trade a winning lottery ticket for more lottery tickets as others have said.


Spurs need to build around Wemby and Harper and Castle. Harper has more upside than both Fox and Castle. He's a special talent. You don't trade your best backcourt prospect. You team him with Wemby.

It took Wemby going down and lottery luck to be able to be in a position to put a prospect/player like Harper on the Spurs.

Wemby/Harper/Castle is your future long term core with their timelines close for 10+ years. Fox is here for the shorter duration.

If you think Harper isn't going to be great (thinking he can bust) then you are blind in player analysis.

[LeBowen]

I refuse to believe rankingtear isn't a troll. Noone can be this dense, he's just baiting everyone with a daily influx of horrible takes.

[Seventyniner]

It takes high end talent to win consistently. Wemby and Fox are already there, Castle looks very promising, and Harper if anything even more so. The Spurs might even be able to get KD while keeping all 4 of those guys!

Keep stacking high end talent. Draft Harper.

[rankingtear]

You don't trade a winning lottery ticket for more lottery tickets as others have said.


Spurs need to build around Wemby and Harper and Castle. Harper has more upside than both Fox and Castle. He's a special talent. You don't trade your best backcourt prospect. You team him with Wemby.

It took Wemby going down and lottery luck to be able to be in a position to put a prospect/player like Harper on the Spurs.

Wemby/Harper/Castle is your future long term core with their timelines close for 10+ years. Fox is here for the shorter duration.

If you think Harper isn't going to be great (thinking he can bust) then you are blind in player analysis.

Your romanticizing the rebuild. Your talking about him being great and a 10 year timeline, he is already working out for 29 teams trying to get out before he is even drafted. You think that guy is fine waiting. Cmon man.

[sfernald]

Your romanticizing the rebuild. Your talking about him being great and a 10 year timeline, he is already working out for 29 teams trying to get out before he is even drafted. You think that guy is fine waiting. Cmon man.

It does seem like he is the kind of 1A player who wants his own team and wants to take the final shot of every game aka Luka or a Kobe. That’s what I see in watching the tape. A player absolutely fearless at game’s end. That could be a problem with the Spurs where it seems like Wemby wants to be the closer at the end of games. With fox too even crowding the situation more.

Any thoughts on this? My thinking is if he’s good enough the problem just goes away cause he will be the closer then.

[exstatic]

It does seem like he is the kind of 1A player who wants his own team and wants to take the final shot of every game aka Luka or a Kobe. That’s what I see in watching the tape. A player absolutely fearless at game’s end. That could be a problem with the Spurs where it seems like Wemby wants to be the closer at the end of games. With fox too even crowding the situation more.
Any thoughts on this? My thinking is if he’s good enough the problem just goes away cause he will be the closer then.

That team was so bad, he had to take all of the important shots. Rutgers had two top 3 NBA prospects, and couldn’t even make the NIT. That’s how bad the rest of their roster was.

[Mr. Body]

That team was so bad, he had to take all of the important shots. Rutgers had two top 3 NBA prospects, and couldn’t even make the NIT. That’s how bad the rest of their roster was.

And one of those top prospects was Ace Bailey.

[ginobilized]

And one of those top prospects was Ace Bailey.

All this has me wondering why Harper chose Rutgers in the first place......to be closer to home, and, presumably Uncle Daddy Ron?
Kind of weird. Maybe this has been covered 20 pages ago, apologies if so. Columbo was a big influence on me. In that vein, any guesses as to why the Harpers might want to keep their boy close to home? Are the Brooklyn rumors feasible.
I know, I know, wait 20 days and we'll all find out.

Why didn't Cooper Flagg choose the University of Maine? Maybe it was a great choice for his development as a freshman to be close to home. Very odd for a 5-star recruit.

[exstatic]

And one of those top prospects was Ace Bailey.

One of the reasons I think he’s this year’s Cam Whitmore, the guy who just does terrible interviews and comes across as a complete asshat, and has the lead scorer mindset, no passing, without the tools to implement it at the NBA.

Do I think he drops to 20? Probably not, but a drop to 10 is completely possible. Ace is a prime example of everything wrong with AAU basketball.

[Mr. Body]

All this has me wondering why Harper chose Rutgers in the first place......to be closer to home, and, presumably Uncle Daddy Ron?
Kind of weird. Maybe this has been covered 20 pages ago, apologies if so. Columbo was a big influence on me. In that vein, any guesses as to why the Harpers might want to keep their boy close to home? Are the Brooklyn rumors feasible.
I know, I know, wait 20 days and we'll all find out.

His brother went there and there are other ties, I think. He could have gone to Duke, I believe, which would have been unbelievable.

[Mr. Body]

All this has me wondering why Harper chose Rutgers in the first place......to be closer to home, and, presumably Uncle Daddy Ron?
Kind of weird. Maybe this has been covered 20 pages ago, apologies if so. Columbo was a big influence on me. In that vein, any guesses as to why the Harpers might want to keep their boy close to home? Are the Brooklyn rumors feasible.
I know, I know, wait 20 days and we'll all find out.

His brother went there and there are other ties, I think. He could have gone to Duke, I believe, which would have been unbelievable.

[exstatic]

All this has me wondering why Harper chose Rutgers in the first place......to be closer to home, and, presumably Uncle Daddy Ron?
Kind of weird. Maybe this has been covered 20 pages ago, apologies if so. Columbo was a big influence on me. In that vein, any guesses as to why the Harpers might want to keep their boy close to home? Are the Brooklyn rumors feasible.
I know, I know, wait 20 days and we'll all find out.

Daddy Ron and mom are divorced and have been for some time. All of his background story videos feature his mom and maternal relatives. She’s the primary parent, and Dylan always calls her his coach.

His bro, Ron Jr., also went to Rutgers, so there’s a family connection.

Brooklyn literally has nothing I want that’s worth #2.

[MannyIsGod]

If he doesn't come off the bench then who does? Steph?


I don't think anyone but Wemby and Fox have locked down start spots right now. If it was up to me, I'm staring Wemby, Barnes, Harper, Castle, and Fox. This might change after we see what moves the Spurs make, but I think people here are 1) overrating Castle and underrating Harper currently. Don't get me wrong, I like Castle a lot, but he has a LONG way to go before he's an all star. Obviously, so does the guy who hasn't played a single game in the NBA, but if you were forcing me to pick one of the two that is more likely to be be a #2 caliber star, I am going with Harper.

That being said, if you're also asking me who's the most likely to come off the bench given the history of this coaching staff and organization then I definitely believe that Harper is most likely to start the year coming off the bench. But I also expect him to just be too good for that. Maybe the evaluation changes once we actually see him against NBA competition, but I have a hard time believing Devin is going to be the best contributor out of him, Castle, and Harper and warrant starting.

[SpursFan86]

I’m a huge fan of Castle but I think he’s become a bit overrated on here tbh. People that are acting like he should be guaranteed a starting spot and/or already acting like him getting a max extension is a lock are getting ahead of themselves.

He wouldn’t have been ROTY in most years - it’s not like he was dominant as a rookie. It’s entirely possible that Harper as a rookie is better than Castle as a sophomore.

You let them battle it out in training camp/preseason and see where things go. Neither guy should be guaranteed anything. I do think Castle is probably a better fit alongside Fox/Wemby for the 1st unit and if I had to bet money I’d say Castle gets the nod over Harper…but it shouldn’t be a foregone conclusion.

Might all be a moot point anyways when our starting lineup is Harper/Fox/Castle/KD/Wemby!

[scott]

You're taking benched in the playoffs Ayton over CP3 in a year he was 9th in MVP voting or over Bridges in a year he narrowly lost the DPOY vote?

Okay fine. He was the 4th guy. And that contract was clearly a mistake. He earned it by averaging 17/10. Castle and Harper, if they are behind Wemby, Fox and Durant, are going to average like 14/4/5 if they are lucky.

So you want to point to Ayton’s massive overpay of a contract as an example how Castle and Harper are going to earn a max?

[scott]

All this has me wondering why Harper chose Rutgers in the first place......to be closer to home, and, presumably Uncle Daddy Ron?
Kind of weird. Maybe this has been covered 20 pages ago, apologies if so. Columbo was a big influence on me. In that vein, any guesses as to why the Harpers might want to keep their boy close to home? Are the Brooklyn rumors feasible.
I know, I know, wait 20 days and we'll all find out.

Why didn't Cooper Flagg choose the University of Maine? Maybe it was a great choice for his development as a freshman to be close to home. Very odd for a 5-star recruit.

I don’t know how much of an impact it really played… but Dylan Harper did have a Top-5 in the nation NIL deal with Rutgers (reportedly) - which was the second largest NIL deal in the country for an incoming Freshman (behind Flagg). Now, did he get that because he was going to Rutgers or did he get that because he was the second best prospect and it didn’t matter what school he went to? I don’t know.

[baseline bum]

Okay fine. He was the 4th guy. And that contract was clearly a mistake. He earned it by averaging 17/10. Castle and Harper, if they are behind Wemby, Fox and Durant, are going to average like 14/4/5 if they are lucky.

So you want to point to Ayton’s massive overpay of a contract as an example how Castle and Harper are going to earn a max?

Just point out players with talent or perceived talent get paid. Also are you trying to tell me 40 year old Durant is going to be a better player than Year 4 Castle and Year 3 Harper and crowd them out of being able to earn max deals?

[scott]

Just point out players with talent or perceived talent get paid. Also are you trying to tell me 40 year old Durant is going to be a better player than Year 4 Castle and Year 3 Harper and crowd them out of being able to earn max deals?

Players with talent or perceived talent and on the court production get paid. A guy averaging 14/4/5 isn’t getting a rookie max extension, especially not in the apron era. Just go look at all the guys who have gotten rookie max extensions. Devin (thankfully) did not get one after averaging 18.5/4/4

Rookie extensions gets signed after a rookie’s 3rd year. So it would be after Durant’s 2nd year for us with for Castle and after his 3rd year with us for Harper. If you don’t think he’s going to still be averaging close to 20ppg in those years… why they hell is he extended at whatever insane salary he’ll be making?

But let’s say Durant isn’t here. It’s still Wemby averaging 25+ ppg and Fox averaging 20+ ppg. There is room for one of those guys to show out and earn a max rookie deal, but probably not both.

This is actually a completely fine problem for the Spurs… but my point it’s not hard for a player to look at that situation and see how it’s going to be difficult for them to maximize their earnings potential in San Antonio, and that might be a very real issue for guys. Some other guys may not care. But this is their job… and almost every human being in America wants to maximize their earnings.

[RC_Drunkford]

I don't think anyone but Wemby and Fox have locked down start spots right now. If it was up to me, I'm staring Wemby, Barnes, Harper, Castle, and Fox. This might change after we see what moves the Spurs make, but I think people here are 1) overrating Castle and underrating Harper currently. Don't get me wrong, I like Castle a lot, but he has a LONG way to go before he's an all star. Obviously, so does the guy who hasn't played a single game in the NBA, but if you were forcing me to pick one of the two that is more likely to be be a #2 caliber star, I am going with Harper.

That being said, if you're also asking me who's the most likely to come off the bench given the history of this coaching staff and organization then I definitely believe that Harper is most likely to start the year coming off the bench. But I also expect him to just be too good for that. Maybe the evaluation changes once we actually see him against NBA competition, but I have a hard time believing Devin is going to be the best contributor out of him, Castle, and Harper and warrant starting.

you can't start Fox/Harper/Castle all at the same time cause it'll fuck up your spacing. That's not enough shooting. I also assume Harper would get used like a sixth man for his first season. I just hope we draft him, cause there's certainly enough smoke there to think that we might actually trade down (his dad's comments, his workouts for other teams, reports that the Spurs want Maluach and don't want to trade Devin)

[baseline bum]

Players with talent or perceived talent and on the court production get paid. A guy averaging 14/4/5 isn’t getting a rookie max extension, especially not in the apron era. Just go look at all the guys who have gotten rookie max extensions. Devin (thankfully) did not get one after averaging 18.5/4/4

Rookie extensions gets signed after a rookie’s 3rd year. So it would be after Durant’s 2nd year for us with for Castle and after his 3rd year with us for Harper. If you don’t think he’s going to still be averaging close to 20ppg in those years… why they hell is he extended at whatever insane salary he’ll be making?

But let’s say Durant isn’t here. It’s still Wemby averaging 25+ ppg and Fox averaging 20+ ppg. There is room for one of those guys to show out and earn a max rookie deal, but probably not both.

This is actually a completely fine problem for the Spurs… but my point it’s not hard for a player to look at that situation and see how it’s going to be difficult for them to maximize their earnings potential in San Antonio, and that might be a very real issue for guys. Some other guys may not care. But this is their job… and almost every human being in America wants to maximize their earnings.

Oh well doesn't sound like Harper is too concerned from that clip.

[exstatic]

I’m a huge fan of Castle but I think he’s become a bit overrated on here tbh. People that are acting like he should be guaranteed a starting spot and/or already acting like him getting a max extension is a lock are getting ahead of themselves.

He wouldn’t have been ROTY in most years - it’s not like he was dominant as a rookie. It’s entirely possible that Harper as a rookie is better than Castle as a sophomore.

You let them battle it out in training camp/preseason and see where things go. Neither guy should be guaranteed anything. I do think Castle is probably a better fit alongside Fox/Wemby for the 1st unit and if I had to bet money I’d say Castle gets the nod over Harper…but it shouldn’t be a foregone conclusion.

Might all be a moot point anyways when our starting lineup is Harper/Fox/Castle/KD/Wemby!

As rookies in about the same minutes, other than 3 point shooting, Castle put up numbers better than SGA. ROTY winners also mostly have good to great career arcs. We’re right to be excited.

[scott]

Oh well doesn't sound like Harper is too concerned from that clip.

Might not be! I’m just pointing out that this is a real consideration for these guys when they get drafted… if they aren’t thinking about it, surely their agent is going to make them very much aware of how their landing spot may impact their future earnings potential.

I don’t think this is going to present a problem for Harper (because Castle is a SF)… but it is why I say that I wouldn’t just automatically pencil in Max Deals for Castle and Harper. It’s going to be hard for both of them to earn those deals. A cap sheet has in some ways some self-regulating features built in when you build organically in that regard. It’s when you go out and acquire a bunch of expensive guys who have “earned” big deals through their past performance and reputation that you run into a lot of trouble. It’s also why I think OKC will be in a lot better shape long term than people want to admit.

[SpursFan86]

As rookies in about the same minutes, other than 3 point shooting, Castle put up numbers better than SGA. ROTY winners also mostly have good to great career arcs. We’re right to be excited.

I mean shooting 37% from 3 (SGA) vs. 28% from 3 (Castle) is a pretty meaningful difference :lol

Regardless, of course we should be excited with Castle. I mentioned I’m a big fan and I think he can be a huge piece of our core for years to come. I’m solely pointing out that I think people overestimate how good he currently is and are a little quick to act like he’s a lock to be a max contract guy down the road. Specifically in the context of this discussion, I think it’s silly to assume he’s a lock to start over Castle.

[Dejounte]

https://x.com/harper04_5/status/1930672153361301594?s=46

Much ado about nothing

[baseline bum]

https://x.com/harper04_5/status/1930672153361301594?s=46

Much ado about nothing

Link's broken

[SpursFan86]

https://x.com/harper04_5/status/1930672153361301594?s=46

Much ado about nothing

It’s a tweet from Ron Harper saying “Nope” in response to a fan’s theory that Dylan is going to get rerouted to Utah or Washington.

To play devil’s advocate, he could be saying that because there is another team he’s getting moved to (not Utah/Washington)…doesn’t mean he’s staying in SA. That being said I probably wouldn’t waste time trying to read into Dylan’s dad’s tweets :lol Highly doubt he’s actually going to give away real strategies/plans that are in play.

[mo7888]

Have there been any reports of Harper working out for Dallas?

[DPG21920]

1930672522598465956

1930672153361301594

1930670892608049315

[Ariel]

It’s a tweet from Ron Harper saying “Nope” in response to a fan’s theory that Dylan is going to get rerouted to Utah or Washington.

To play devil’s advocate, he could be saying that because there is another team he’s getting moved to (not Utah/Washington)…doesn’t mean he’s staying in SA. That being said I probably wouldn’t waste time trying to read into Dylan’s dad’s tweets :lol Highly doubt he’s actually going to give away real strategies/plans that are in play.
Yeah, this. By reading his replies, I got the impression it's the Nets he's interested in, local kid, went to college in the area, now staying close to home and having his own team in a market like NY... I think that's the play, not getting him to Utah or New Orleans or somewhere like that. But hopefully I'm wrong.

[Ariel]

Have there been any reports of Harper working out for Dallas?
Ohhhh I like the way you're thinking... :smokin

[picnroll]

Harper will be half way through his rookie season with the Spurs and some Spurstalk posters will still be posting how he’s not coming here.

[scott]

Ron Harper's dad and Dejounte Murray's dad should hang out

[Ice009]

I don't know what's going on. At least his dad checked Dusty on his reporting ;).


It’s a tweet from Ron Harper saying “Nope” in response to a fan’s theory that Dylan is going to get rerouted to Utah or Washington.

To play devil’s advocate, he could be saying that because there is another team he’s getting moved to (not Utah/Washington)…doesn’t mean he’s staying in SA. That being said I probably wouldn’t waste time trying to read into Dylan’s dad’s tweets :lol Highly doubt he’s actually going to give away real strategies/plans that are in play.

He might not be giving away any plans, but it looks like he's at least eliminating plans. Maybe someone who's on Twitter/X should post more scenarios and see what he says? Maybe we can get him to eliminate most of them and guess what the plans are.

[DPG21920]

I don't know what's going on. At least his dad checked Dusty on his reporting ;).

Funny part is it was not even Dusty’s report on this one :lol - he aggregated it from Krysten Peek

[Leetonidas]

Ron Harper should really stfu. Especially considering his age. Old dudes tweeting all day is lame as fuck

[The Truth #6]

Ron Harper should really stfu. Especially considering his age. Old dudes tweeting all day is lame as fuck
Exactly. Go to Spurs Talk where it's socially acceptable to share bombastic opinions.

[Mr. Body]

Ron Harper should really stfu. Especially considering his age. Old dudes tweeting all day is lame as fuck

I was at the dentist yesterday and some old boomer guy was just blaring out the stupid videos he was watching. They have no manners or regard for anything and just want to share how stupid as fuck they are.

[rjv]

lol @ harper calling dusty a clown. he ain't wrong.

[scott]

lol @ harper calling dusty a clown. he ain't wrong.

He's one of us!

[The Truth #6]

Anyway. I'd much rather debate if Harper is better than Fox than Keldon vs Devin like in year's past. This is progress. This is a good thing. I don't see how to be good enough to win a title without quality players who have to sacrifice their numbers to win. Either we succeed at that or not. but at least we're in the conversation. It's up to the organization to get the players to get along.

On that tangent I'd love to see Manu work with Harper, not expecting him to develop his skills, though that would be great, but to, how shall we say, inculcate him into the Spurs way of teamwork and sacrifice etc. Not saying this is easy.

[dn0774]

Anyway. I'd much rather debate if Harper is better than Fox than Keldon vs Devin like in year's past. This is progress. This is a good thing. I don't see how to be good enough to win a title without quality players who have to sacrifice their numbers to win. Either we succeed at that or not. but at least we're in the conversation. It's up to the organization to get the players to get along.

On that tangent I'd love to see Manu work with Harper, not expecting him to develop his skills, though that would be great, but to, how shall we say, inculcate him into the Spurs way of teamwork and sacrifice etc. Not saying this is easy.

Lefties stick together.

[exstatic]

1930672522598465956

1930672153361301594

1930670892608049315

:rollin. Seeing Modesto get dusted off by Senior kinda makes my week.

[exstatic]

Ron Harper's dad and Dejounte Murray's dad should hang out

Same energy.

[scott]

Rafael Barlow was the guy who originally reported he had a conversation with the father of a projected lottery pick and that the Bucks were researching the player, despite not picking until 47 (source: https://www.nbabigboard.com/p/nba-trade-buzz-draft-intel-plus-prospects?r=nm05o&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web)

Many people immediately speculated it was Ron Harper talking about Dylan.

Rafael on KOC's show today says he wasn't talking about Ron or Dylan (https://youtu.be/xjs89GetUjg?t=649). I sent this with the timestamp around when they start talking about Harper. Barlow says he wasn't talking about Harper a few minutes later.

[scottspurs]

Rafael Barlow was the guy who originally reported he had a conversation with the father of a projected lottery pick and that the Bucks were researching the player, despite not picking until 47 (source: https://www.nbabigboard.com/p/nba-trade-buzz-draft-intel-plus-prospects?r=nm05o&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web)

Many people immediately speculated it was Ron Harper talking about Dylan.

Rafael on KOC's show today says he wasn't talking about Ron or Dylan (https://youtu.be/xjs89GetUjg?t=649). I sent this with the timestamp around when they start talking about Harper. Barlow says he wasn't talking about Harper a few minutes later.

KOC says the Spurs are not a good fit for Harper because of spacing issues and then says they should trade for Giannis. Then goes on to say the only problem with Giannis to the Spurs is it will provide spacing issues. Lmao this dude is a grade A spurs hater. If the spurs Traded for Steph Curry he would find a way to say it wouldn’t work.

I could see it now: spurs pick up Curry: KOC, “yeah I don’t think Curry can shoot anymore especially on the spurs it could provide spacing issues” lmao

[mudyez]

Yeah, loved KOC at the mismatch and between Verno and him, I mostly liked his side.
While still listening to KOC, he loses me more and more.

...and I LOVE Verno while Jacoby is just silly.

[Vienna]

Rafael Barlow was the guy who originally reported he had a conversation with the father of a projected lottery pick and that the Bucks were researching the player, despite not picking until 47 (source: https://www.nbabigboard.com/p/nba-trade-buzz-draft-intel-plus-prospects?r=nm05o&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web)

Many people immediately speculated it was Ron Harper talking about Dylan.

Rafael on KOC's show today says he wasn't talking about Ron or Dylan (https://youtu.be/xjs89GetUjg?t=649). I sent this with the timestamp around when they start talking about Harper. Barlow says he wasn't talking about Harper a few minutes later.

wouldn‘t Kon Knueppel be the logical answer? the Knueppel parents seem to be around all the time, playing that ridiculous big familiy show. And they for sure would want Kon on their hometown Bucks. this aside, the Bucks for sure follow several different paths, some might be about somehow getting Kon, he would make some sense there. not every scenario will involve a Giannis trade and/or the #2 pick.

[CGD]

wouldn‘t Kon Knueppel be the logical answer? the Knueppel parents seem to be around all the time, playing that ridiculous big familiy show. And they for sure would want Kon on their hometown Bucks. this aside, the Bucks for sure follow several different paths, some might be about somehow getting Kon, he would make some sense there. not every scenario will involve a Giannis trade and/or the #2 pick.

The story also said ex-nba player, which is why people said Harper. It was probably Jase’s dad.

[exstatic]

KOC is such an idiot. On a pod this season, he said that Flagg was the best prospect since LeBron. Someone else on the pod said “ what about Wemby?” KOC was all “Uhhhh, uh, college prospect”. Except LeBron never attended college.

[Vienna]

The story also said ex-nba player, which is why people said Harper. It was probably Jase’s dad.

yes, makes sense and Jase makes sense for the Bucks. don‘t see him as a lottery pick though, a pick in the late teens could likely get it done. Nets might sell the pick back to Bucks for……well, I have no idea.

[poopbox]

Fox isn’t the alpha here, to be running off players. He’s also not a long term piece. If both young guards work out, PATFO will sit down with Klutch and find a landing place for him in four years or so.

That would be franchise suicide, to run off the one star free agent who went well out of his way to not only come to SA but to suppress his market value so that the spurs could keep assets for other deals. You go into a meeting at any point in the next 3 or 4 years to tell Fox you are moving on from him and you will not get another star player to come play here for a very long time. You might have to draft Wemby's unborn children for it to happen again.

Real life isn't 2k where you click a few buttons and bring in a new player. And Fox most certainly is the "alpha" here because he is the one who choose to be here. Just like he choose to stay in Sac years ago and got Haliburton shipped out of town.

[exstatic]

That would be franchise suicide, to run off the one star free agent who went well out of his way to not only come to SA but to suppress his market value so that the spurs could keep assets for other deals. You go into a meeting at any point in the next 3 or 4 years to tell Fox you are moving on from him and you will not get another star player to come play here for a very long time. You might have to draft Wemby's unborn children for it to happen again.

Real life isn't 2k where you click a few buttons and bring in a new player. And Fox most certainly is the "alpha" here because he is the one who choose to be here. Just like he choose to stay in Sac years ago and got Haliburton shipped out of town.

I can guarantee you one thing if we draft and keep Harper: Fox doesn’t get a second contract here at age 31. they’re not getting rid of a 24 YO Castle or a 23 YO Harper.

That leaves only two options: dump him unprepared on the FA market, or sit down with Rich Paul, and find him a soft landing. They will not be blindsided, and will probably call the meeting themselves. You can’t pay Wemby, Castle, Harper,and Fox in today’s NBA. I think they’ll realize that.

That foolishness about Fox being alpha? Nope. He came here because of Victor. Wemby is the alpha, and I think everyone except you is aware of that.

[BackHome]

As long as Spurs pay him and be upfront with him, I don't think he will have much of heartburn as he will basically be able to pick the team he wants to go to. So, no "we need to first round picks" nope it is where do you want to go and just a straight up regular trade.

But that old saying "Don't count your chickens until they hatched" as we don't know the future and we are all just assuming what is going to happen - just sit back and enjoy the ride..

[exstatic]

As long as Spurs pay him and be upfront with him, I don't think he will have much of heartburn as he will basically be able to pick the team he wants to go to. So, no "we need to first round picks" nope it is where do you want to go and just a straight up regular trade.

But that old saying "Don't count your chickens until they hatched" as we don't know the future and we are all just assuming what is going to happen - just sit back and enjoy the ride..

That’s the key point, and that’s also where the Spurs reputation for straight shooting comes in. We also have a good history with Klutch. Even when Marcus Morris dicked us, they signed the deal he wanted with NY, then immediately dropped him as a client.

[Allan Rowe vs Wade]

Lmao at people thinking the Spurs are too good to feature rookie Harper

[dn0774]

That would be franchise suicide, to run off the one star free agent who went well out of his way to not only come to SA but to suppress his market value so that the spurs could keep assets for other deals. You go into a meeting at any point in the next 3 or 4 years to tell Fox you are moving on from him and you will not get another star player to come play here for a very long time. You might have to draft Wemby's unborn children for it to happen again.

Real life isn't 2k where you click a few buttons and bring in a new player. And Fox most certainly is the "alpha" here because he is the one who choose to be here. Just like he choose to stay in Sac years ago and got Haliburton shipped out of town.

What are you saying? Spurs have to set up Fox with max contracts for the rest of his playing days because he called his shot to SA? What if he sucks/regresses? His post trade Spurs stint was objectively bad. The optimist in me is willing to chalk it up to playing injured and in a new setting but we truly won't know until next season rolls around and we see him healthy and integrated.

I certainly appreciate him helping suppress the market and fully expect him to get a max extension from us (likely all but agree'd upon before the trade commenced), but if Castle and Harper are for real we can absolutely move on from Fox in a couple years. Now, that assumes Harper/Castle are both on all star trajectories which isn't near as likely as many here want to believe.

Let me also say this; posters on here suggesting to trade Fox and start Harper day 1 need to stick to playing 2k and go read only mode on these boards. That will not and should not happen. We want competent/dynamic point guard play going into this season, expecting that from Harper that soon is going to be a very disappointing. Castle has a long ways to go before he is that guy as well. Young guards just take time when it comes to being positive offensive players. We need at least a couple seasons of Fox at the helm.

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxrqXCqC1FE

[ace3g]

https://x.com/NBADraft/status/1932470635009130622

[Ice009]

When was he ever matched up with Curry? Was this some sort of pickup game they played?

[exstatic]

When was he ever matched up with Curry? Was this some sort of pickup game they played?

USA*Basketball, probably.

[SpursBills]

Hypothetical question:

Who is the WORST player you would trade #2 overall for?

Let's say you can package whatever salary filler you need to for 1 player on his current contract / expected future contract. No additional picks, swaps, etc. Everybody trades for Jokic, Luka, Anthony Edwards, etc but who's the worst player that you'd do this for?

My gut says maybe Jalen Williams? Would anybody do JJJ or Franz? Amen Thompson? I'm probably not doing Scottie Barnes or worse.

***Ignore what the other team wants, I'm just trying to gauge how highly people here value Dylan Harper's potential/median outcome

[scottspurs]

Hypothetical question:

Who is the WORST player you would trade #2 overall for?

Let's say you can package whatever salary filler you need to for 1 player on his current contract / expected future contract. No additional picks, swaps, etc. Everybody trades for Jokic, Luka, Anthony Edwards, etc but who's the worst player that you'd do this for?

My gut says maybe Jalen Williams? Would anybody do JJJ or Franz? Amen Thompson? I'm probably not doing Scottie Barnes or worse.

***Ignore what the other team wants, I'm just trying to gauge how highly people here value Dylan Harper's potential/median outcome


For me I’m not trading him for anyone over 30. I think the cut off line is Evan Mobley, Cade Cunningham, Paolo Banchero tier of player. I would thin about players on rookie contracts though. Chet, Amen Thompson. No one from last years draft though haha

[scottspurs]

I think his ceiling potential is James Harden who was the league’s leading scorer for several years and won an MVP. I think his median is Cade Cunningham. A guy who will make several all-star games maybe a few All-NBA teams. His Floor is Tony Parker like player that only makes a few all-star games because he goes under the radar on a great team. Great player but under appreciated. The only way he busts is if he gets injured and loses his confidence when he comes back like Markele Fultz did or if the goes full Josh Primo on us. Seems like a good kid but makes some stupid mistakes kind of thing.

[scottspurs]

I think his ceiling potential is James Harden who was the league’s leading scorer for several years and won an MVP. I think his median is Cade Cunningham. A guy who will make several all-star games maybe a few All-NBA teams. His Floor is Tony Parker like player that only makes a few all-star games because he goes under the radar on a great team. Great player but under appreciated. The only way he busts is if he gets injured and loses his confidence when he comes back like Markele Fultz did or if the goes full Josh Primo on us. Seems like a good kid but makes some stupid mistakes kind of thing.

[scott]

Hypothetical question:

Who is the WORST player you would trade #2 overall for?

Let's say you can package whatever salary filler you need to for 1 player on his current contract / expected future contract. No additional picks, swaps, etc. Everybody trades for Jokic, Luka, Anthony Edwards, etc but who's the worst player that you'd do this for?

My gut says maybe Jalen Williams? Would anybody do JJJ or Franz? Amen Thompson? I'm probably not doing Scottie Barnes or worse.

***Ignore what the other team wants, I'm just trying to gauge how highly people here value Dylan Harper's potential/median outcome

Going by the Ringer Top 100, it’s probably Amen or Franz. And there are plenty of guys ranked higher than those two who I would not accept.

[Ditty]

Hypothetical question:

Who is the WORST player you would trade #2 overall for?

Let's say you can package whatever salary filler you need to for 1 player on his current contract / expected future contract. No additional picks, swaps, etc. Everybody trades for Jokic, Luka, Anthony Edwards, etc but who's the worst player that you'd do this for?

My gut says maybe Jalen Williams? Would anybody do JJJ or Franz? Amen Thompson? I'm probably not doing Scottie Barnes or worse.

***Ignore what the other team wants, I'm just trying to gauge how highly people here value Dylan Harper's potential/median outcome

Amen Thompson for me. Wemby and him would be an absolute terror on defense together. If Amen ever develops a jump shot…GG’s for the rest of the league.

[Pauleta14]

I think his ceiling potential is James Harden who was the league’s leading scorer for several years and won an MVP. I think his median is Cade Cunningham. A guy who will make several all-star games maybe a few All-NBA teams. His Floor is Tony Parker like player that only makes a few all-star games because he goes under the radar on a great team. Great player but under appreciated. The only way he busts is if he gets injured and loses his confidence when he comes back like Markele Fultz did or if the goes full Josh Primo on us. Seems like a good kid but makes some stupid mistakes kind of thing.

That's a HOF floor :lol

He's way more gifted than TP, but we don't know much about his mental, his willingness to do sacrifices etc Tony was a psychopath and endured stuff that 99% wouldn't be able to.

THOSE traits are what make a great player and why the draft will always be a gamble

[ace3g]

https://x.com/nbafuturenow/status/1932611677456830628

[scottspurs]

That's a HOF floor :lol

He's way more gifted than TP, but we don't know much about his mental, his willingness to do sacrifices etc Tony was a psychopath and endured stuff that 99% wouldn't be able to.

THOSE traits are what make a great player and why the draft will always be a gamble

Harper is that good. His tape is special. Measurables are special. His ceiling is high and his floor is high. I wouldn’t say can’t miss because we don’t know what is going on between the ears but in media interviews he comes across as a good kid that gets it.

[RC_Drunkford]

There's like a 90% chance he becomes an All-Star caliber player, just by his skillset and who his parents are. Safest pick at #2 in the entire draft.

[John B]

https://x.com/nbafuturenow/status/1932611677456830628

It would be fucking insane not to draft or trade this kid to Brooklyn as suggested by someone on another thread. Harper could compete for the number one option. Certainly an alpha dog. When I watched that Jordan Brand Classic, he took that best player knowing everybody’s expecting Flagg. The question is if he’s willing to fall behind Wemby?? Unlike Shaq, Wemby is a consummate player who pushes himself to get better. I understood Kobe doing 200% preparation then finds Shaq 20 lbs overweight comes opening day. Is Harper okay under the shadow of Wemby? Is he a willing passer? Or too much of a Jordan? I always like Magic more than Jordan because of Magic’s conscious effort to make people around him better. He didn’t need to take the last shot if he could pass to a player who has a better shot. Kobe and Jordan would take the shot even with 3 players on them. Yes there was the Kerr shot that won the championship but that was more an exception. 9/10 Jordan would prefer to take the shot.

I’ve known Castle as someone of a team-first. I still don’t know Harper that well. Parker “eventually” learned to defer to David and Timmy. Because growing up, he always thought himself the best player. He was a score-first PG when he came to San Antonio but Pop barked, cussed and molded him to be the best teammate that he became. But come 2007 Finals, he didn’t have problem taking the Finals MVP from Timmy. How will the chemistry be between Harper and Castle, with both having similar game? That was the problem with Westbrook and Durant (and maybe Harden had he stayed). Without Pop’s credentials, how will Mitch massage the egos not to mention Fox to co-exist?

[Ice009]

There's like a 90% chance he becomes an All-Star caliber player, just by his skillset and who his parents are. Safest pick at #2 in the entire draft.

Are the Spurs like 95% likely to take the number 2 pick? I really hope they're not looking to trade it. What are you hearing on that front?


It would be fucking insane not to draft or trade this kid to Brooklyn as suggested by someone on another thread. Harper could compete for the number one option. Certainly an alpha dog. When I watched that Jordan Brand Classic, he took that best player knowing everybody’s expecting Flagg. The question is if he’s willing to fall behind Wemby?? Unlike Shaq, Wemby is a consummate player who pushes himself to get better. I understood Kobe doing 200% preparation then finds Shaq 20 lbs overweight comes opening day. Is Harper okay under the shadow of Wemby? Is he a willing passer? Or too much of a Jordan? I always like Magic more than Jordan because of Magic’s conscious effort to make people around him better. He didn’t need to take the last shot if he could pass to a player who has a better shot. Kobe and Jordan would take the shot even with 3 players on them. Yes there was the Kerr shot that won the championship but that was more an exception. 9/10 Jordan would prefer to take the shot.

I’ve known Castle as someone of a team-first. I still don’t know Harper that well. Parker “eventually” learned to defer to David and Timmy. Because growing up, he always thought himself the best player. He was a score-first PG when he came to San Antonio but Pop barked, cussed and molded him to be the best teammate that he became. But come 2007 Finals, he didn’t have problem taking the Finals MVP from Timmy. How will the chemistry be between Harper and Castle, with both having similar game? That was the problem with Westbrook and Durant (and maybe Harden had he stayed). Without Pop’s credentials, how will Mitch massage the egos not to mention Fox to co-exist?

Great points you've bought up. We don't really know his personality yet. another interesting thing you've mentioned is KD and Westrook and Harden. I am certain the reason he left OKC was because of Westbrook basically competing with him for the Alpha spot. If I was in the Spurs' pitch meeting with Durant in 2016, I would have been hammering the point home about getting away from Westbrook. I would have been saying stuff like you won't get that in SA, you're going to get team player and the goal is to win. I feel that Durant was playing/shooting well in the OKC Vs Warriors series, but Westrbook chucked them out of it after they got the 3-1 lead (I think it was a 3-1 lead?).

Maybe getting Durant could also really help the young guys (not just Victor). Maybe he could have a talk with all the young guys and tell them what happened in OKC, and tell them not to repeat the mistakes they made. Not to let ego get in the way. If he shares his OKC experience, that could make a big difference to helping mold these guys so it doesn't end up like it did in the Durant, Westbrook, Harden OKC era.

[exstatic]

Are the Spurs like 95% likely to take the number 2 pick? I really hope they're not looking to trade it. What are you hearing on that front?



Great points you've bought up. We don't really know his personality yet. another interesting thing you've mentioned is KD and Westrook and Harden. I am certain the reason he left OKC was because of Westbrook basically competing with him for the Alpha spot. If I was in the Spurs' pitch meeting with Durant in 2016, I would have been hammering the point home about getting away from Westbrook. I would have been saying stuff like you won't get that in SA, you're going to get team player and the goal is to win. I feel that Durant was playing/shooting well in the OKC Vs Warriors series, but Westrbook chucked them out of it after they got the 3-1 lead (I think it was a 3-1 lead?).

Maybe getting Durant could also really help the young guys (not just Victor). Maybe he could have a talk with all the young guys and tell them what happened in OKC, and tell them not to repeat the mistakes they made. Not to let ego get in the way. If he shares his OKC experience, that could make a big difference to helping mold these guys so it doesn't end up like it did in the Durant, Westbrook, Harden OKC era.

That’s not even remotely true. He left because the cheap ass owner wouldn’t pay even $1 of luxury tax. There was a difference of somewhere between 1 and 2 million per year on his second contract that the owner wouldn’t pay, so they traded Harden over that.

[Ice009]

I was talking about Westbrook competing with KD for the alpha spot well after Harden left. The Harden thing, I was thinking he could tell them if you have something special, don't break it up over a few million. Of course, in the OKC case it was the owner that did that and not the player.
KD should have been getting the ball more in those last three games against the Warriors, but Westbrook chucked up shots and made questionable plays like he always does. I don't think Durant was happy to keep playing with him IMO. I know that is the way he plays, but he's never been as good of a shooter as KD and never will be. He should have gotten KD the ball more and taken a back seat on offense a bit and concentrated on defense more.

[Pauleta14]

Harper is that good. His tape is special. Measurables are special. His ceiling is high and his floor is high. I wouldn’t say can’t miss because we don’t know what is going on between the ears but in media interviews he comes across as a good kid that gets it.

He's also my choice and I'm not being pessimistic, just rational

I've learned that interviews or tapes are just a tiny tip of the iceberg and so many aspects of a player's game or character can change his trajectory. I wish for ex to have watched Harper against a more competitive opposition or in a system more team oriented like Castle had at Uconn that was a huge plus for me last season for ex.

Looking back at past draft mistakes can be quite impressive and funny

[John B]

I think Harper would have a chip on his shoulder coming in, proving himself better than Flagg. He will gun that ROTY and I’m just hoping that Mitch would give him a chance. But Spurs are notoriously stubborn with “get-over-yourself” mantra, and might rub the wrong way to some players. And I don’t know Ron Sr perception of Wemby, if Dylan is listening to his dad. Some of these old school NBA players are hard-core on “tough players” of yesteryears, and not very keen on 7 footers taking 15 3’s a night. Is it okay for an alpha dog like Dylan to be a 4th option at best? How would it affect his chances of getting ROTY if ever? Good problem for Mitch and Co. I can’t wait what opening day roster and starting line up would be.

[rjv]

it's been said before that dylan is more in tune with his mother than his pops. there are interviews out there where Harper basically says as much.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JcZ4KgYd4I

[Ice009]

I wonder if his mom would move out to SA with him (hopefully the Spurs do draft him). Not sure what her coaching credentials are (I think I read she's an assistant coach somewhere). Could she possibly get a job as an assistant on the G-League team?

[John B]

https://x.com/nbafuturenow/status/1932611677456830628

I can't wait for Castle and Harper going at it at practice :lol

[Mr. Body]

One thing he really has going for him at this age is how hard it is to tell what he's doing. Defenders read by position and movement of who they're guarding and Harper manages to be really hard to figure out. This is why his defenders are always getting out of position or misreading him; his counters are excellent and he reads their movements really well, there's a ton of instinct combined with skill.

[poopbox]

Hypothetical question:

Who is the WORST player you would trade #2 overall for?

Let's say you can package whatever salary filler you need to for 1 player on his current contract / expected future contract. No additional picks, swaps, etc. Everybody trades for Jokic, Luka, Anthony Edwards, etc but who's the worst player that you'd do this for?

Easily Chet. Having 2 young 7 footers who can grow into 3 level scorers would be the dream because their just aren't many, if any, teams who have a front court that can defend it.

I'd trade every pick we have except for 2 this year and castle for chet no questions. I'd send Dr Strange into the multiverse to collect picks from the Spurs in other timelines to bring them back to trade for Chet.

My gut says maybe Jalen Williams? Would anybody do JJJ or Franz? Amen Thompson? I'm probably not doing Scottie Barnes or worse.

***Ignore what the other team wants, I'm just trying to gauge how highly people here value Dylan Harper's potential/median outcome

[John B]

At this point, I'm not even trading #2 for no-defense Luka

[Spurs Brazil]

https://x.com/EricSal_7/status/1932582711245340797

[R. DeMurre]

Hypothetical question:

Who is the WORST player you would trade #2 overall for?

Let's say you can package whatever salary filler you need to for 1 player on his current contract / expected future contract. No additional picks, swaps, etc. Everybody trades for Jokic, Luka, Anthony Edwards, etc but who's the worst player that you'd do this for?

My gut says maybe Jalen Williams? Would anybody do JJJ or Franz? Amen Thompson? I'm probably not doing Scottie Barnes or worse.

***Ignore what the other team wants, I'm just trying to gauge how highly people here value Dylan Harper's potential/median outcome


Evan Mobley for sure. Here’s a question: would you do #2 + #14 for Barnes & Quickley, knowing there’s also a side deal available of Fox for Trey Murphy lll + future FRP?

[LeBowen]

Evan Mobley for sure. Here’s a question: would you do #2 + #14 for Barnes & Quickley, knowing there’s also a side deal available of Fox for Trey Murphy lll + future FRP?

No chance, both are overpaid and don't fit the roster.

Since Giannis won't get traded, #2 should be untouchable.
We're talking about a player who looks to be the textbook example of a future all-star guard, has no fundamental flaws and is a perfect long-term fit.
I'm not trading that pick for players who won't ever be on that level.

[rascal]

No chance, both are overpaid and don't fit the roster.

Since Giannis won't get traded, #2 should be untouchable.
We're talking about a player who looks to be the textbook example of a future all-star guard, has no fundamental flaws and is a perfect long-term fit.
I'm not trading that pick for players who won't ever be on that level.

Yes

It's getting to a point people are just bored now and thinking up all sorts of trades. The draft can't come soon enough.

[scottspurs]

“If Dylan Harper ends up with the Spurs, it’s only because they were unable to move the pick (or him). I have zero doubt about that.” - Sam Amico just now on twitter lol

Between him and KOC the salty clowns are coming out to play

[baseline bum]

https://x.com/EricSal_7/status/1932582711245340797

God I'm gonna be pissed if they trade down unless they uncover some obvious red flag like Ben Simmons lack of competitiveness or a nerve issue like wrecked Markelle Fultz's jumper.

[baseline bum]

Yes

It's getting to a point people are just bored now and thinking up all sorts of trades. The draft can't come soon enough.

All this talk gets me fucking nervous man like they're going to piss away this incredible bit of fortune that just fell in their laps

[rascal]

All this talk gets me fucking nervous man like they're going to piss away this incredible bit of fortune that just fell in their laps

I don't believe the Spurs are stupid enough unlike many of their fanbase in here to piss the fortunate luck to have a chance to add Harper.

[YoungbuckMurray]

Isn’t the amico guy like never right?

[TekXX]

I mean who's to say that Harper is the right pick?

[Pauleta14]

I think the Spurs want Knueppel or Maluach who both fit important needs and will try to trade down

If they fail, they'll pick Harper and one of him Castle or Fox will be traded in the next year

[Mr. Body]

I mean who's to say that Harper is the right pick?

I will. I'll say Harper is the right pick.

[exstatic]

I think the Spurs want Knueppel or Maluach who both fit important needs and will try to trade down

If they fail, they'll pick Harper and one of him Castle or Fox will be traded in the next year

You don’t ‘need’ draft when god drops a #2 pick in your lap. Never pass on high talent for mediocre need fillers.

[spursparker9]

Let's trust PATFO.

I think it is reasonable to say that Spurs are quite conservative in nature during trades and draft. No crazy wild trades at all. As for draft, Spurs did took gamble on international players in last 20+ years. But that is also because they did their homework and due diligence, studying international prospects and realizing that they can play in the NBA.

Spurs will definitely draft Harper. Chill guys

[R. DeMurre]

No chance, both are overpaid and don't fit the roster.


If Quickley "doesn't fit" the roster as a less expensive replacement for Fox, how does Fox fit the roster? They're nearly the exact same size, and Quickley has a better career BPM and WS/48, and is younger.

[onechance87]

“If Dylan Harper ends up with the Spurs, it’s only because they were unable to move the pick (or him). I have zero doubt about that.” - Sam Amico just now on twitter lol

Between him and KOC the salty clowns are coming out to play

yea what a stupid quote from him.

[BG_Spurs_Fan]

yea what a stupid quote from him.

‘I’m right even if I’m not’ vibes. The worst kind of a hack. Spurs may or may not trade 2. Amico doesn’t know shit either way.

[LeBowen]

If Quickley "doesn't fit" the roster as a less expensive replacement for Fox, how does Fox fit the roster? They're nearly the exact same size, and Quickley has a better career BPM and WS/48, and is younger.

Fox isn't going anywhere and if we have Fox, Quickley is redundant.

[cutewizard]

Talent is talent

[cutewizard]

https://youtu.be/oPYsx00WsqY?si=bMGY-7w32sAvKsGg

[cutewizard]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HAsbiyxuCI

[R. DeMurre]

Fox isn't going anywhere and if we have Fox, Quickley is redundant.


You misread the original post... the scenario specifically says "if there's also a deal in place where Fox is traded for Trey Murphy lll + a FRP." I would never want two 6'3" guards starting in the back court together.

[exstatic]

You misread the original post... the scenario specifically says "if there's also a deal in place where Fox is traded for Trey Murphy lll + a FRP." I would never want two 6'3" guards starting in the back court together.

I think his point is that it’s a ridiculous scenario and not worth entertaining. They’re not going to trade FOR Fox, and then trade him four months later.

If they pick and keep Harper, then I think in 3-4 years when the pay crunch hits, they’ll move Fox, but both the league and the Spurs will look very different at that point in time.

[R. DeMurre]

I think his point is that it’s a ridiculous scenario and not worth entertaining.


His reply specifically said Quickley would be redundant in the back court with Fox, so it was a simple misread. The original post was a response to SpursBill's question about who was the worst player we'd accept in a trade for #2... my response was Evan Mobley, and then I entertained the idea of what two players I would consider. It's just an entertaining exercise in response to that question, not a serious proposal.

[SpursFan86]

1933173321744703835Really hope the Spurs don’t fuck this up and do something stupid…

[BatManu20]

Lol. I don't see what the Spurs could possibly want from the Sixers in any trade scenario so this is very likely a nothing-burger but still funny to see.

1933175365763023278

[SpursFan86]

Lol. I don't see what the Spurs could possibly want from the Sixers in any trade scenario so this is very likely a nothing-burger but still funny to see.

1933175365763023278

Yeah, it doesn’t really make sense from all perspectives. Harper isn’t really a good fit for Philly either, and would probably have even fewer opportunities there next to Maxey/PG/Embiid than he’d have in SA. Philly also doesn’t have any clear high level starters that would make sense for us.

Think we’re just getting to the point in the draft cycle where there are non-stop smokescreens. Just hard to see how Philly/SA find any deal that makes sense.

[LeBowen]

Lol. I don't see what the Spurs could possibly want from the Sixers in any trade scenario so this is very likely a nothing-burger but still funny to see.

Suns asking price for KD is too high so we turned our attention to Playoff P. :pop:

[BatManu20]

Spurs trying to move up from 14 makes more sense. Wonder if it's Knueppel they're targeting tbh. Or who else it may be.

1933184118642348532

[scottspurs]

Wouldn’t be the 1st time Daryl Morey absolutely fleeced the Spurs. See Luis Scola

[Seventyniner]

Using #14 to move up to #3 makes no sense. That would cost Castle at a minimum, and other than Bailey or maybe Kon the best players at #3 are guards so it would be the same problem with Fox/Harper/VJ.

The Spurs trading #2 for #3 plus assets makes even less sense. The Sixers can't trade any firsts until 2029 at the earliest. Maybe if it's #2 for #3 + PHI29 + PHI31 + unprotected swaps in 2030 and 2032? Even then that's tough to swallow because there's such a large gap between Harper and whoever the Spurs would want at #3.

[BatManu20]

Using #14 to move up to #3 makes no sense. That would cost Castle at a minimum, and other than Bailey or maybe Kon the best players at #3 are guards so it would be the same problem with Fox/Harper/VJ.

The Spurs trading #2 for #3 plus assets makes even less sense. The Sixers can't trade any firsts until 2029 at the earliest. Maybe if it's #2 for #3 + PHI29 + PHI31 + unprotected swaps in 2030 and 2032? Even then that's tough to swallow because there's such a large gap between Harper and whoever the Spurs would want at #3.

All these reports are just teams doing their due diligence and the media trying to stir up controversy before the draft. Spurs will almost certainly just take Dylan Harper at #2. Nothing else makes any sense.

[Seventyniner]

All these reports are just teams doing their due diligence and the media trying to stir up controversy before the draft. Spurs will almost certainly just take Dylan Harper at #2. Nothing else makes any sense.

Yup. :bobo

I just looked up the Sixers future drafts and I forgot to look at the incoming side.

What they have to offer is

2025 #3
LAC28
LAC29 swap protected #1-3
two of PHI29/30/31/32
swaps on the other two of those
all their own seconds
5 excess seconds (1 in 2027, 2 in 2028, 2 in 2030)


If the Sixers were willing to fully empty the chest for #2, it might be worthwhile after all.

That would be stupid of the Sixers, but some FOs do stupid things and you never know until you ask!

[picnroll]

Those 76ers LAC picks are likely fools gold. The Clippers will be set up for Leonard and Harden, with a one year extension, contracts to expire in 2027 and Ballmer will have a boatload of cap space to spend.

[SpursBills]

My guess is that Sixers offer is #2 for #3, McCain, and a future unprotected first, but I’m prob not taking that

[tim_duncan_fan]

Any truth to the idea that Harper's dad does not want him in San Antonio?

[KobesAchilles]

Any truth to the idea that Harper's dad does not want him in San Antonio?
Yes he has publicly said he doesn’t want him to play for the Spurs. His son however has publicly said he wishes to play with the Spurs and his dream is to play with Wemby

[goliath]

Don Harris tweeted the Philly rumors are “laughable”

[picnroll]

Draft night can’t be over soon enough.

[RC_Drunkford]

Lol. I don't see what the Spurs could possibly want from the Sixers in any trade scenario so this is very likely a nothing-burger but still funny to see.

1933175365763023278

future picks and swaps, not players. But it's most likely NOLA or Utah we're making a deal with.


Using #14 to move up to #3 makes no sense. That would cost Castle at a minimum, and other than Bailey or maybe Kon the best players at #3 are guards so it would be the same problem with Fox/Harper/VJ.

The Spurs trading #2 for #3 plus assets makes even less sense. The Sixers can't trade any firsts until 2029 at the earliest. Maybe if it's #2 for #3 + PHI29 + PHI31 + unprotected swaps in 2030 and 2032? Even then that's tough to swallow because there's such a large gap between Harper and whoever the Spurs would want at #3.

Spurs obviously got a target in the top 10 and it's most likely Maluach


Those 76ers LAC picks are likely fools gold. The Clippers will be set up for Leonard and Harden, with a one year extension, contracts to expire in 2027 and Ballmer will have a boatload of cap space to spend.

no team with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden is set up. Kawhi can't even play 50% of the games.

[Knoxxx]

If PHI wants to give us a kings ransom to flip picks we should be looking at it. And we should not discount a 3rd team being in the mix either, for example that could move us from 14 into the top 8 or 10 as was mentioned.

[John B]

Spurs should not overthink this. Grab Harper when they can and figure it out later. The kid is going to be multiple All-Star.

[BatManu20]

Spurs should not overthink this. Grab Harper when they can and figure it out later. The kid is going to be multiple All-Star.

I agree. Hopefully this is just redraft noise and the Spurs doing their due diligence, and Harper will be a Spur come Draft night.

[exstatic]

If PHI wants to give us a kings ransom to flip picks we should be looking at it. And we should not discount a 3rd team being in the mix either, for example that could move us from 14 into the top 8 or 10 as was mentioned.

The gap between 2 and 3 is larger than the gap between 1 and 2, imo.

[Spurs Brazil]

https://x.com/DonHarris4/status/1933202885589778435

[Mr. Body]

A year from now the Spurs will crash out in like the second round of the playoffs, Harper will have started ripping up defenses and be first team All Rookie as the other unanimous member after the ROY Flagg and we'll be wondering what we'll be doing with the Atlanta lottery pick we have.

[mo7888]

If PHI wants to give us a kings ransom to flip picks we should be looking at it. And we should not discount a 3rd team being in the mix either, for example that could move us from 14 into the top 8 or 10 as was mentioned.

They have no ransom to offer

[TheChillFactor]

i distinctly remember thinking when the Spurs traded Gordan Giricek to Utah that we should have traded them Ginobili instead, because Giricek was a better shooter and that's what we needed with Timmy.

[Knoxxx]

If Spurs trade down to 3 and get well compensated via some PHI future picks, those can enable the KD trade and possibly some surplus left over to possibly parlay to a Jaylen Brown. Example:

Spurs give:
#2, #14, any players but Fox/Castle/Wemby

Spurs get:
#3, #8, KD, Jaylen Brown

Fox
Castle
Brown
KD
Bailey/Edgecomb etc
Maluach
Wemby

And maybe it’s not Jaylen Brown due to his contract size, but some other strong veteran trade acquisition. But, the idea here is we should be thinking big as the stars could align for us.

And I’m aware that this likely involves more than 3 teams, but we don’t need to limit ourselves to only 2-3 team trade ideas. That’s not even realistic, that we do one 2-3 team trade only.

[mo7888]

Using #14 to move up to #3 makes no sense. That would cost Castle at a minimum, and other than Bailey or maybe Kon the best players at #3 are guards so it would be the same problem with Fox/Harper/VJ.

The Spurs trading #2 for #3 plus assets makes even less sense. The Sixers can't trade any firsts until 2029 at the earliest. Maybe if it's #2 for #3 + PHI29 + PHI31 + unprotected swaps in 2030 and 2032? Even then that's tough to swallow because there's such a large gap between Harper and whoever the Spurs would want at #3.

It wouldn't cost Castle. It'd cost us absorbing PG though and I don't think we do that.

[Knoxxx]

They have no ransom to offer

That’s figurative speech. Someone posted they do have future FRPs to offer.

https://www.bleachernation.com/nba/2025/05/28/76ers-2025-draft-picks/

We get a couple of those, send one to PHO, perhaps another of our own FRPs, offload some of our future SRPs to PHO and PHI. Think outside the box for a second, man!

We are trying to make PHO think it’s a king’s ransom for KD. The real goal is to fleece PHO, PHI, and any other team we can, shhhh don’t tell them!

[mo7888]

That’s figurative speech. Someone posted they do have future FRPs to offer.

https://www.bleachernation.com/nba/2025/05/28/76ers-2025-draft-picks/

We get a couple of those, send one to PHO, perhaps another of our own FRPs, offload some of our future SRPs to PHO and PHI. Think outside the box for a second, man!

We are trying to make PHO think it’s a king’s ransom for KD. The real goal is to fleece PHO, PHI, and any other team we can, shhhh don’t tell them!

Thinking outside the box is fine if it meets our needs and satisfy's another to get it done.... This ain't that..

[RC_Drunkford]

If Spurs trade down to 3 and get well compensated via some PHI future picks, those can enable the KD trade and possibly some surplus left over to possibly parlay to a Jaylen Brown. Example:

Spurs give:
#2, #14, any players but Fox/Castle/Wemby

Spurs get:
#3, #8, KD, Jaylen Brown

Fox
Castle
Brown
KD
Bailey/Edgecomb etc
Maluach
Wemby

And maybe it’s not Jaylen Brown due to his contract size, but some other strong veteran trade acquisition. But, the idea here is we should be thinking big as the stars could align for us.

And I’m aware that this likely involves more than 3 teams, but we don’t need to limit ourselves to only 2-3 team trade ideas. That’s not even realistic, that we do one 2-3 team trade only.

would be most likely Trey Murphy or John Collins. One of those plus fillers and future draft compensation. Lauri Markkanen might also be on the table if the KD trade doesn't happen. There's no way the Spurs want Jaylen Brown on a supermax and try to pair him with KD on a vet max. You'll have no money left. Might as well go for Giannis then.

[exstatic]

If Spurs trade down to 3 and get well compensated via some PHI future picks, those can enable the KD trade and possibly some surplus left over to possibly parlay to a Jaylen Brown. Example:

Spurs give:
#2, #14, any players but Fox/Castle/Wemby

Spurs get:
#3, #8, KD, Jaylen Brown

Fox
Castle
Brown
KD
Bailey/Edgecomb etc
Maluach
Wemby

And maybe it’s not Jaylen Brown due to his contract size, but some other strong veteran trade acquisition. But, the idea here is we should be thinking big as the stars could align for us.

And I’m aware that this likely involves more than 3 teams, but we don’t need to limit ourselves to only 2-3 team trade ideas. That’s not even realistic, that we do one 2-3 team trade only.

Jaylen Brown has been ridden hard, and put away wet. He has a lot more mileage than his age would suggest. His contract is also unworkable. The last year, when Durant has rolled off, and Castle is in the first year of his extension, with Wemby and Fox getting paid already, is $64M.

[Knoxxx]

Jaylen Brown has been ridden hard, and put away wet. He has a lot more mileage than his age would suggest. His contract is also unworkable. The last year, when Durant has rolled off, and Castle is in the first year of his extension, with Wemby and Fox getting paid already, is $64M.

Right, the point was that trading off Harper is feasible and should be considered. We can swap in and out other names based on individual preference. Brown for Naz Reid, Knueppel for Maluach, etc. That’s why I caveated Brown as I don’t think the Spurs would want his contract. The idea was an example of the caliber of player we could add, on top of KD and two draft picks, by being open to moving the 2 pick. I’m not saying I prefer to move the 2 pick, but if the deal is right never say never.

Appreciate your feedback and keeping me honest on the salary side, since you are much more studied in that area than I.

[Knoxxx]

Thinking outside the box is fine if it meets our needs and satisfy's another to get it done.... This ain't that..

Now your deflecting because saying PHI has nothing to offer us is untrue.

[Knoxxx]

The gap between 2 and 3 is larger than the gap between 1 and 2, imo.

Time will tell, but I hope PHI sees it that way too. Would you swap the 2 for the 3 and two of their future unprotected FRPs?

[exstatic]

Right, the point was that trading off Harper is feasible and should be considered. We can swap in and out other names based on individual preference. Brown for Naz Reid, Knueppel for Maluach, etc. That’s why I caveated Brown as I don’t think the Spurs would want his contract. The idea was an example of the caliber of player we could add, on top of KD and two draft picks, by being open to moving the 2 pick. I’m not saying I prefer to move the 2 pick, but if the deal is right never say never.

Appreciate your feedback and keeping me honest on the salary side, since you are much more studied in that area than I.

It actually shouldn’t. The most valuable contract in the NBA is a top prospect on a rookie deal. Maximizing payroll value is critical in today’s second apron NBA. You shouldn’t trade one of those value contracts for an already expensive veteran. You also don’t trade down for one or more lesser players. That’s the old “surely two 10 point scorers are the same as a 20 point scorer” trope.

[PhantomDashCam]

Not to add credence to any of the Philly reports but the SA based reporters refuting or dismissing them outright are likely full of crap too.
No one knows for sure what’s going to happen here (though grabbing Harper seems most likely based on his perceived value).

If it did turn out that #2 does get traded they’d probably pat themselves on the back for being CIA type assets who “knew” more than they could tell us at the time, standing pat and allowing the deal to play out. :lol

Have SA reporters ever broken real Spurs news?

[exstatic]

Not to add credence to any of the Philly reports but the SA based reporters refuting or dismissing them outright are likely full of crap too.
No one knows for sure what’s going to happen here (though grabbing Harper seems most likely based on his perceived value).

If it did turn out that #2 does get traded they’d probably pat themselves on the back for being CIA type assets who “knew” more than they could tell us at the time, standing pat and allowing the deal to play out. :lol

Have SA reporters ever broken real Spurs news?

While I’m not a fan of Spurs local media, it’s mainly for their unwillingness to hold the team accountable. Posters call them a team mouthpiece. Well, if they're flat saying that Harper will be a spur, that’s probably also them acting as a team mouthpiece.

[Knoxxx]

It actually shouldn’t. The most valuable contract in the NBA is a top prospect on a rookie deal. Maximizing payroll value is critical in today’s second apron NBA. You shouldn’t trade one of those value contracts for an already expensive veteran. You also don’t trade down for one or more lesser players. That’s the old “surely two 10 point scorers are the same as a 20 point scorer” trope.

Now you’re exaggerating, but to clarify I see it more like this:

We give 2 pick, a 20 point guy

We get 3 pick, a 15 point guy
We also get two future unprotected FRPs from PHI

If you saw it that way, would you do the deal?

Noted: you already stated you think there is a big gap between 2 and 3, which is NOT the question I am asking.

[R. DeMurre]

I honestly think his floor is pre-knee injury Ron Harper, who was an extremely solid player. That’s good news.

[sfernald]

#2 + Branham for #3 + McCain + Justin Edwards + Philly 31 unprotected pick

Who says no?

[DAF86]

Does anybody know if there has ever been a player that in college dominated so much getting to the basket in college and then flopped at the NBA? It seems like drible driving to the hoop becomes even easier in the NBA because of the extra spacing and the favourable rules.

[mo7888]

Now your deflecting because saying PHI has nothing to offer us is untrue.

I never said they had nothing to offer. I said they had no ransom to offer. All they have is projected middling picks and a swap with a middling team. There's no ransom there.

[Spurs Brazil]

https://x.com/JMcDonald_SAEN/status/1933285203197198591

[Spurs Brazil]

https://x.com/ExpressNews/status/1933219005298348067

[dn0774]

Rutgers coach saying that is actually a little interesting. Of course he is going to rep his guy, but isn’t Ace Bailey his guy too? And Ace is actually a much better fit on paper. It kind of acknowledges the perceived talent disparity between the two prospects.

[Knoxxx]

#2 + Branham for #3 + McCain + Justin Edwards + Philly 31 unprotected pick

Who says no?

I’m all in but only if we take Bailey with the 3 pick, specifically to agitate Exstatic. And add KD, LeBron, and enough of the oldest max players in the league to reach a half billion annual payroll.

[sfernald]

Time will tell, but I hope PHI sees it that way too. Would you swap the 2 for the 3 and two of their future unprotected FRPs?

I wouldn’t. I think it’s pretty clear that Morey sees Harper as the next James Harden. He paid whatever he had to to bring him to Houston. Now he’s trying to do the same with Harper. Will Spurs be dumb enough to give away a 30+ pt per game foul merchant (the next harden/shai)? Let’s fucking hope not!

[exstatic]

Now you’re exaggerating, but to clarify I see it more like this:

We give 2 pick, a 20 point guy

We get 3 pick, a 15 point guy
We also get two future unprotected FRPs from PHI

If you saw it that way, would you do the deal?

Noted: you already stated you think there is a big gap between 2 and 3, which is NOT the question I am asking.

I’m not doing any deal for #2 for one very good reason: we’re not 100% sure that Wemby is OK. If he’s not, it would be good to have another potential candidate on board. It’s not Fox, because he couldn’t do it in Sacto. There are none apparent past #2 in the draft, either.

Having too much talent onboard either isn’t a problem, or it’s a good one to have. It would be nearly impossible to recover if we trade #2 and Wemby isn’t OK. You’d have to count on being lucky in the lottery for a fourth consecutive time. Shitty odds.

[Ice009]

I’m not doing any deal for #2 for one very good reason: we’re not 100% sure that Wemby is OK. If he’s not, it would be good to have another potential candidate on board. It’s not Fox, because he couldn’t do it in Sacto. There are none apparent past #2 in the draft, either.

Having too much talent onboard either isn’t a problem, or it’s a good one to have. It would be nearly impossible to recover if we trade #2 and Wemby isn’t OK. You’d have to count on being lucky in the lottery for a fourth consecutive time. Shitty odds.

This is one of the reasons I wanted Cooper, and also another reason for Harper. Just don't like thinking about it, but yeah, the point is, having another potential/possible franchise player can't be a bad thing IMO.

[scottspurs]

It has been reported the Spurs are taking Harper at 2. Stop coming up with trades. Waste of time.

[rankingtear]

https://x.com/JMcDonald_SAEN/status/1933285203197198591

The spurms reporters are always shocked because they are too lazy and boring to find real info, the spurms are the favorites according to the betting odds and you are still going to be shocked? lol. Why spurms have the shittiest local coverage, locked on podcast host sounds like he is bored all the time, the express news guys are more interested in puff pieces, the jimenez guy is a try hard bontempts.

[Ice009]

Why do you constantly disrespect the team's name. The only spurm/sperm around here is you.

[Knoxxx]

I’m not doing any deal for #2 for one very good reason: we’re not 100% sure that Wemby is OK. If he’s not, it would be good to have another potential candidate on board. It’s not Fox, because he couldn’t do it in Sacto. There are none apparent past #2 in the draft, either.

Having too much talent onboard either isn’t a problem, or it’s a good one to have. It would be nearly impossible to recover if we trade #2 and Wemby isn’t OK. You’d have to count on being lucky in the lottery for a fourth consecutive time. Shitty odds.

Fine takes but once again you dodge the question. If we knew Wemby was 100% fine, would you do that deal?

And while we are at it, who would you take with the 3 pick? And no saying Harper falling to 3 that’s cheating.

You keep stone walling while I was legitimately interested to get your opinion.

[Knoxxx]

I wouldn’t. I think it’s pretty clear that Morey sees Harper as the next James Harden. He paid whatever he had to to bring him to Houston. Now he’s trying to do the same with Harper. Will Spurs be dumb enough to give away a 30+ pt per game foul merchant (the next harden/shai)? Let’s fucking hope not!

Alright swap the 2 for 3 + 4 first round picks? I just think it’s odd that everyone thinks Harper is priceless when he doesn’t even have a jump shot and hasn’t played a down in the league yet.

BTW I’m fine with the pick of Harper I just think it’s interesting to think about what if with two more weeks to kill until maybe we finally know.

[Ice009]

No one knows if Victor is 100%, so you can stop with that. You don't pass up Dylan Harper (a potential franchise player) for any trade that doesn't include a franchise player, and NONE of your trades/trad proposals include one of those. And to get one (Giannis for example), it's going to cost more than the 2nd pick, so you may as well just take the 2nd pick.

[scottspurs]

No one knows if Victor is 100%, so you can stop with that. You don't pass up Dylan Harper (a potential franchise player) for any trade that doesn't include a franchise player, and NONE of your trades/trad proposals include one of those. And to get one (Giannis for example), it's going to cost more than the 2nd pick, so you may as well just take the 2nd pick.

Shams reported Wemby is 100% weeks ago. He has already been cleared for basketball activities

[tbdog]

Sources: No Guarantee That Spurs Will Take Dylan Harper At No. 2 (https://hoopswire.com/sources-no-guarantee-that-spurs-will-take-dylan-harper-at-no-2/)