Spurs' future draft picks

[Darkwaters]

In the model I worked out here is how I feel the rotation would work out:

Active:
Parker/Papaloukas
Finley/Ginobili/White
Nocioni/Bowen
Duncan/McDyess/Horry
Oberto/Butler

Inactive:
Vaughn, Dudley, Elson

Point Guard

Parker: Lions share of the minutes. He'll probably average fewer minutes this season than last. With a quality backup the team won't feel such a significant dropoff when hes not on the court. In the playoffs that will likely change.

Papaloukas: Gets all of the backup minutes. Since his play will be of higher quality than Vaughn or Udrih he will probably command more time on the court. Also, with his size (and Tony's ever improving jump shooting) we could play Tony off the ball and run Theodoras as the primary playmaker. This would be another look that could give defenses like Cleveland fits.

Vaughn: Inactive unless there is an injury.

Wings

Finley: Mike will get the start like he did for most of last season. He will probably get about the same amount of minutes as well...although that number is more likely to go down rather than up except in the event of an injury. If James White looks to be a competant player on this team then I can see Finley taking a Robert Horry type approach to the season and letting the young guns shoot it out.

Ginobili: I see him coming off the bench yet again. Although, he will probably play extended minutes with Nocioni and Oberto for obvious reasons. Pencil Gino in for about 28 mins a game.

White: This is the wild card of the class. He could get a sizeable role next year or he could simply be a toss in for show. In all really depends on what he can do night in and night out. He had good showings last year. But who knows? He essentially takes Brent Barry's role.

Nocioni: Starts at the 3 and plays the majority of the minutes. He could also slide over to the 4 and give us that oh so desirable small ball 4 lineup. His minutes will therefore vary depending on who we play. I could see him playing about the same amount of time as Gino if not more.

Bowen: His minutes should decline this year significantly. With him getting up there in age I expect him to start being limited by the coaching staff to about 25 mins a game on a typical night. During the playoffs it will be aboutu matchups obviously.

Dudley: Inactive for the most part. Takes a year to learn the system.

Posts

Duncan: Same as last year. He is the Spurs offense and defense. He will play when needed and rest when hes not needed.

McDyess: He will probably do the 25 mins a game thing like he did in Detroit. We could set up a situtation where McDyess takes the first game of a back to back off and Horry does the opposite. His minutes will be small, but his role large.

Horry: About the same as this year. Inconsistent and small minutes during the year at times. Hes basically a stash away for the playoffs.

Oberto: His minutes were up and down last year. I think he solidified his role as the starter by his quality play in the postseason. I see him playing about 20 - 25 mins a game this year.

Butler: I see this kid taking a playing role this year as the principal backup center. I could see him taking 15-20 mins a game depending on his contribution. He will be on the floor when Duncan isn't to provide low post offense.

Elson: Inactive except when matchups require him to play or McDyess/Horry needs a rest. I can see him being traded at the deadline.

[yavozerb]

I may prove to be quite wrong, but I highly doubt that we bring Mahinmi over next season. There's little evidence that he's even ready for the SJax plan yet.
You could be right, but then again I do not think he is ready for the SJAX plan yet either..I think he is ready for developmental league plan and I would really like this guy to be around players like Horry, Finley, Bowen, Oberto to see what it takes to be a good NBA player before these guys are gone..

[yavozerb]

Bowen: His minutes should decline this year significantly. With him getting up there in age I expect him to start being limited by the coaching staff to about 25 mins a game on a typical night. During the playoffs it will be aboutu matchups obviously. (DarkWaters)

Ya, he really looked old this post season and do you really think vaughn would sign for another yeat for an inactive roster spot..I would rather have vaughn (who knows the system) as back-up pg than any rookie or FA pick up.

[A.H 21-50]

The problem with that is that those are all guys who would likely need to be on the roster next year, unless we just cut the second round picks - in which case they are wasted..

I don't think there's a chance will draft three new players for next season's roster. They'll either package 1 or 2 of them in a trade for a player or to move up and/or use one on a draft and stash player.

for the no.58 pick im for the solution of an euro player who will not make the roster next year
grabbing two players in the roster with the draft IMO can be possible or make a package of the two picks also

[AFBlue]

You could be right, but then again I do not think he is ready for the SJAX plan yet either..I think he is ready for developmental league plan and I would really like this guy to be around players like Horry, Finley, Bowen, Oberto to see what it takes to be a good NBA player before these guys are gone..

Uhhh...Duncan should still be here in 2008, he won't be half bad to watch and learn from.

Mahinmi coming over will be a simple matter of roster space. If the Spurs have a 15th spot available, I'm thinking he'll get brought over and shipped direct to the D-League....but finding that open 15th spot will be tough next year.

[Darkwaters]

for the no.58 pick im for the solution of an euro player who will not make the roster next year
grabbing two players in the roster with the draft IMO can be possible or make a package of the two picks also

The only player I've been advocating taking at 58 and putting on the roster is DJ Strawberry. And then we only take him if we don't take a wing at 33 or 28. Frankly, the next season we will have Finley, Bowen, Barry, and White with expiring contracts and Ginobili will be about 32. We need some youth at the wing and a guy like Strawberry could spend a year to learn the system and then play a role the next year.

Honestly, I'd rather just draft one player at the wing with either the 28 or 33 and bring him in this season. The only way we'd draft two wings is if one was a foreigner that we could stash (Rudy Fernandez).

[AFBlue]

For all the talk on Nocioni, I don't think the Spurs have had discussions about getting him, let alone what it would take. The Bulls could very well use the low-post skills of Luis Scola, but they could also just draft Spencer Hawes. They could use the long-range shooting of Brent Barry, or they could give their young guys more time on the court.

Bottom Line: Nocioni to the Spurs isn't a given, nor is it anything but speculation to this point.

[Darkwaters]

For all the talk on Nocioni, I don't think the Spurs have had discussions about getting him, let alone what it would take. The Bulls could very well use the low-post skills of Luis Scola, but they could also just draft Spencer Hawes. They could use the long-range shooting of Brent Barry, or they could give their young guys more time on the court.

Bottom Line: Nocioni to the Spurs isn't a given, nor is it anything but speculation to this point.

Barry would probably be traded by the Bulls at the deadline or before to bring in one last piece for their finals run next season. They've made it apparent that they don't really want to bring in more guards as they casually ditched an inexpensive JR Smith last year like he was garbage.

[AFBlue]

FYI, Chris Sheridan just said on a chat that he heard a rumor involving the Lakers and Shawn Marion. It would involve the Lakers shipping their #1 pick, among other things, to which he said "the Suns would use to draft Rudy Fernandez." Do you think the Suns want Rudy and are attempting to trade up in front of another team that likes him (Spurs!) in order to get him?

[Darkwaters]

FYI, Chris Sheridan just said on a chat that he heard a rumor involving the Lakers and Shawn Marion. It would involve the Lakers shipping their #1 pick, among other things, to which he said "the Suns would use to draft Rudy Fernandez." Do you think the Suns want Rudy and are attempting to trade up in front of another team that likes him (Spurs!) in order to get him?

The Suns are trying to cut payroll and don't want to be spending money on first round draft picks. A foreign player that can be stashed overseas is their most attractive venue this year. Hence: Rudy Fernandez is attractive to them. But if they wanted to draft in front of the Spurs then its already done. They own the 24th pick which last time I checked comes before 28. We would have to trade up to at least above 24 to have a reasonable shot at him.

[Mr. Body]

For all the talk on Nocioni, I don't think the Spurs have had discussions about getting him, let alone what it would take. The Bulls could very well use the low-post skills of Luis Scola, but they could also just draft Spencer Hawes. They could use the long-range shooting of Brent Barry, or they could give their young guys more time on the court.

Bottom Line: Nocioni to the Spurs isn't a given, nor is it anything but speculation to this point.

A Spur Noce is certainly not a given, but I believe it's more than speculation at this point; in fact, there is every reason to believe the Spurs have been talking to Chicago about him since at least before the last draft, when the Spurs were trying to get into the mid-first round (and possibly to Sefolosha). There is every reason to believe the Spurs and the Bulls have been discussing it this year, at least since before the trade deadline.

And Spencer Hawes alone will not spell the Bulls' interior troubles. He's not quite ready yet. Plus it looks like Minnesota is very high on him a few picks earlier. Hopefully (as a Chicago fan) they can get Hawes + Scola.

[A.H 21-50]

For all the talk on Nocioni, I don't think the Spurs have had discussions about getting him, let alone what it would take. The Bulls could very well use the low-post skills of Luis Scola, but they could also just draft Spencer Hawes. They could use the long-range shooting of Brent Barry, or they could give their young guys more time on the court.

Bottom Line: Nocioni to the Spurs isn't a given, nor is it anything but speculation to this point.

i think so , too much speculation on nocioni

[Mr. Body]

Do you think the Suns want Rudy and are attempting to trade up in front of another team that likes him (Spurs!) in order to get him?

I don't think San Antonio is remotely in the picture for Fernandez at this point.

[Darkwaters]

I don't think San Antonio is remotely in the picture for Fernandez at this point.
:depressed

[Mr. Body]

Barry would probably be traded by the Bulls at the deadline or before to bring in one last piece for their finals run next season. They've made it apparent that they don't really want to bring in more guards as they casually ditched an inexpensive JR Smith last year like he was garbage.

Barry gives Chicago two things they still need: a tall guard who can handle the ball (to play next to Gordon), and an outside shooter.

(Forget his defensive liabilities.)

[Darkwaters]

Barry gives Chicago two things they still need: a tall guard who can handle the ball (to play next to Gordon), and an outside shooter.

(Forget his defensive liabilities.)

I could see that happening I suppose. But weren't the Bulls interested in Steve Blake for that role?

[Mr. Body]

I could see that happening I suppose. But weren't the Bulls interested in Steve Blake for that role?

I haven't heard anything like that. Why would they want Blake with Hinrich and Duhon on the team?

They like Sefolosha a lot for his size and ball-handling abilities.

[EvenFlow]

I don't want to see us draft Belineli. He seems like a guy who will spend most of his career getting injured from all the reckless landing and contortioning.

[Darkwaters]

I haven't heard anything like that. Why would they want Blake with Hinrich and Duhon on the team?

They like Sefolosha a lot for his size and ball-handling abilities.

Who knows? Why would Memphis give Brian Cardinal the full MLE? Or Golden State give Adonal Foyle a contract in the 7-10M per year range for 5 years? Teams are stupid.

[Darkwaters]

I don't want to see us draft Belineli. He seems like a guy who will spend most of his career getting injured from all the reckless landing and contortioning.

Ginobili has done fine in that regard

[AFBlue]

Barry would probably be traded by the Bulls at the deadline or before to bring in one last piece for their finals run next season. They've made it apparent that they don't really want to bring in more guards as they casually ditched an inexpensive JR Smith last year like he was garbage.

The one question I have about this that could change that logic....

Isn't a player that has already been traded for once, not allowed to be part of a "package" deal in any future trades (one-for-one only)?

If so, that would drastically reduce the number of teams and situations in which his $6M salary could be traded. One sick idea that just crossed my mind....Barry goes the the Kings through Chicago, who takes back Artest in the deal. There's your crazy, huge deal...

Chicago gives...

PG Duhon (to Spurs)
SF Nocioni (to Spurs)

Chicago gets...

SF Artest
PF Scola


SA gives...

SG Barry (Kings)
PF Scola (Bulls)
#28 Pick (Kings)

SA gets...

PG Duhon
SF Nocioni


Sacramento gives...

SF Artest (Bulls)

Sacramento gets...

SG Barry
#28 pick


Dammit....two seconds ago I'm saying it's rediculous to speculate on major trades, and now I'm making them. Son of a.... :bang

[Mr. Body]

Sorry dude! I just see Fernandez taken 8-10 picks before us.

But maybe you're right!

[Mr. Body]

Who knows? Why would Memphis give Brian Cardinal the full MLE? Or Golden State give Adonal Foyle a contract in the 7-10M per year range for 5 years? Teams are stupid.

Those were dumb decisions by dumb GMs (Mullin and, yes, Jerry West this time). Paxson's been smarter.

I've been spending time on the Chicago realgm board. Not that it means anything, but I haven't seen anything involving Steve Blake there.

[EvenFlow]

Ginobili has done fine in that regard


I know all about Ginobili, and it doesn't make me feel good when I think Belinelli is far worse. He can't land right whether he dunks or he shoots. I would rather have the Spurs draft someone else or ship the pick than draft him. But this topic is just dull so I'll won't deter from the main discussion

[Darkwaters]

Sorry dude! I just see Fernandez taken 8-10 picks before us.

But maybe you're right!

What if we traded the 33 and next year's first to the first team that will take it while Rudy is still on the board?

[Mr. Body]

PHAT - I can't see Chicago wanting any part of Ron Artest again.

[Darkwaters]

Those were dumb decisions by dumb GMs (Mullin and, yes, Jerry West this time). Paxson's been smarter.

I've been spending time on the Chicago realgm board. Not that it means anything, but I haven't seen anything involving Steve Blake there.

I must be speaking out of turn then and thinking of some other team.

[AFBlue]

I don't think San Antonio is remotely in the picture for Fernandez at this point.

I don't care what you think!

No, seriously though, I think nothing is set in stone to this point and haven't seen any news on Fernandez to indicate that a certain team has fallen in love with him. My point is that a guy with buyout and injury concerns is likely to fall on draft day. While it would be wierd (and nice!) to see him slip to #28, I wouldn't be shocked.

[AFBlue]

PHAT - I can't see Chicago wanting any part of Ron Artest again.

See what happens when radical trades are proposed....

That was just me trying to prove some...thing...err..yeah

[Mr. Body]

It'd be awesome to get Fernandez. Who knows? Especially if the buyout is a big concern. There are some canny teams right in front of the Spurs that might not pass on him, though, but stranger things have happened.

[Darkwaters]

I don't think the Nocioni trade is "radical" per se. I think it is a legit possibility.

[Mr. Body]

Getting Nocioni is far more likely than some are admitting. Not 100%, but much closer to that than impossible.

[Darkwaters]

It'd be awesome to get Fernandez. Who knows? Especially if the buyout is a big concern. There are some canny teams right in front of the Spurs that might not pass on him, though, but stranger things have happened.

I have been a fan of Rudy for years. I want him on the Spurs with all of my heart.

[Mr. Body]

Hope you get him, man.

[Darkwaters]

Mr. Body,

Are you a Bulls fan? Why do you spend so much time on their boards?

[Mr. Body]

I like the team, but mostly to talk about Scola.

[AFBlue]

Getting Nocioni is far more likely than some are admitting. Not 100%, but much closer to that than impossible.

Yeah I was speaking about my specific trade proposal with the "radical" claim. I understand that it's a possibility, but again I haven't seen any articles or quotes indicating a common interest between the two parties for the players that would be involved.

[Mr. Body]

Both Chicago and especially San Antonio are quiet teams. One reason why they're doing so well- we'll have to see what happens. We do have circumstantial quotes, such as one from Nocioni where he's been told he could get moved this summer and that he'd love to have barbeques with his friends in San Antonio.

[AFBlue]

What's the answer to my question about Barry? If he's traded in the off-season, can he be included in a package during the season? What about after season-start...does it matter?

Bruno...need your CBA expertise!

[Mr. Body]

What's the answer to my question about Barry? If he's traded in the off-season, can he be included in a package during the season? What about after season-start...does it matter?

Bruno...need your CBA expertise!

Yes, he can be traded in a package for someone else. It's after either a 3 or a 6 month wait. In any case, he could be traded before the deadline.

[Darkwaters]

Andrés Nocioni must be a Spur!

[pad300]

Ummm, thats a horrible plan. James Singleton? Really? Thats almost depressing. What about our MLE money? And why hold onto an expensive expiring contract (Barry) when you could use him to leverage a guy like Nocioni away?

You think we will spend the MLE money?

06/07 committed salary : 68,828,356
07/08 committed salary : 66,063,221
08/09 committed salary : 47,024,595 (Duncan (player option), Parker, Manu, Udrih (team option), Butler (team option))

We will be sitting on the edge of lux tax space next year. - this is a given. The year after, we will be below the salary cap, based on currently signed players.

06/07 Salary cap :53,135,000 Luxury tax: 65,420,000
07/08 estimated Salary cap :55,000,000 estimated Luxury tax: 68,000,000
08/09 estimated Salary cap :58,000,000 estimated Luxury tax: 71,000,000

A maximum contract in 08/09 is roughly $12,500,000. The team can offer a contract above the MLE if they have the space below the salary cap (or in sign and trade scenarios)... not the lux tax level. If the Spurs want to make a big FA play before 08/09, they can't have any more salary commitments in 08/09. Including this years 1st round pick, they will be limited to a roughly $10,000,000 offer. Do you think they are going to get anybody worthwhile eg. Nocioni to commit to a ONE year deal???

You can either try and reload this offseason, which isn't particularly attractive, given our salary cap limitations, or go for summer 2008. if you go summer 2k8, Singleton is a poor man's Nocioni - particularly look at his rebound rates...

Then in 2k8 summer
Duncan, Manu, Parker, Butler (assuming he pans out), 2007 1st round pick (McRoberts), 2007 #33 on a multi-year contract with team options (koponen) -
total ~ 47,000,000 note that 2007 1st rounder and #33 will roughly total Udrih's cap commitment - 1st round pay scales jump sharply in the 3ed and 4th years)

$11,000,000 FA offer
total ~ 58,000,000

The 2008 NBA Free Agent Class (from hoopsworld, incomplete, players we might make a play for)
Player Option Year
Al Jefferson team '08
Emeka Okafor team '08
Nenad Krstic team '08
Andre Iguodala team '08
Gilbert Arenas player '08
Andris Biedrins team '08
Ben Gordon team '08
Richard Hamilton player '08
Jason Kidd player '08
Robert Swift team '08
Jermaine O'Neal player '08
Ron Artest player '08
Josh Childress team '08
Josh Smith team '08
Corey Maggette player '08
Shawn Marion player '08
Kevin Martin team '08
Dwight Howard team '08
Elton Brand player '08
Luol Deng team '08
Kevin Garnett team '08


6 players under contract, including 4 core guys - need to sign a minimum of 6 more players (likely 9), ~11,000,000 in pre-luxury tax space left...

Bird Rights - Oberto, Finley, Bowen, Barry, Horry
Early Bird Rights - Vaughn, Elson, White (he hasn't been with us long enough to have full bird rights), Singleton

Post Luxury tax space (ie. exceptions):

MLE
Bi Annual Exception (LLE)
2008 1st round pick (sign him after signing free agents), Rookie exception
Mahnimi (2005 1st round pick, rookie exception).

Team looks like this :
Bigs : Duncan, McRoberts, Mahnimi, Butler, Elson or Oberto (for the minimum)
Wings: Manu, White (early bird rights), Finley (resigned, vet minimum?),
PG's: Parker, Koponen, Vaugh (resigned, vet minimum?)

Big FA signing at Big or Wing
2008 1st round pick
+2 more players (Javtokas?, Singleton?, whomever...)

In summary, my way keeps us competing for the 07/08 championship, and sets up the future. Chucking a bunch of MLE money in there will restrict any signings in 2008 to MLE level contracts roughly... Which won't bring in the big fish!

[A.H 21-50]

a lot of people talk about pruitt here and he will have a workout with the team but i didn't find anything on him on the net ( videos- highlights with USC ... )

i just wanna some highlights of him if it's possible to see his tyle of play .............

[Darkwaters]

a lot of people talk about pruitt here and he will have a workout with the team but i didn't find anything on him on the net ( videos- highlights with USC ... )

i just wanna some highlights of him if it's possible to see his tyle of play .............

Theres not much on him out there as far as I can tell. This video has a little bit of action at the very end of it however (not much to judge him by though, but its all I could find):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2PnIbBo7Eg

[wildbill2u]

I want everyone to read this article at Draft Express about eight types of 'can't miss' draftees who fail to make it in the NBA.

You'll see a lot of the names we've kicking around here as possible draftees who are compared to past 'busts'. Pretty funny and pretty disturbing as well.

http://www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=2116

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Anyone notice that nbadraft.net has Ramon Sessions going 29th overall in this years draft and on draftexpress.com they have him going in the 2nd round of NEXT years draft??? :lol

[Big P]

You think we will spend the MLE money?

06/07 committed salary : 68,828,356
07/08 committed salary : 66,063,221
08/09 committed salary : 47,024,595 (Duncan (player option), Parker, Manu, Udrih (team option), Butler (team option))

We will be sitting on the edge of lux tax space next year. - this is a given. The year after, we will be below the salary cap, based on currently signed players.

06/07 Salary cap :53,135,000 Luxury tax: 65,420,000
07/08 estimated Salary cap :55,000,000 estimated Luxury tax: 68,000,000
08/09 estimated Salary cap :58,000,000 estimated Luxury tax: 71,000,000

A maximum contract in 08/09 is roughly $12,500,000. The team can offer a contract above the MLE if they have the space below the salary cap (or in sign and trade scenarios)... not the lux tax level. If the Spurs want to make a big FA play before 08/09, they can't have any more salary commitments in 08/09. Including this years 1st round pick, they will be limited to a roughly $10,000,000 offer. Do you think they are going to get anybody worthwhile eg. Nocioni to commit to a ONE year deal???

You can either try and reload this offseason, which isn't particularly attractive, given our salary cap limitations, or go for summer 2008. if you go summer 2k8, Singleton is a poor man's Nocioni - particularly look at his rebound rates...

Then in 2k8 summer
Duncan, Manu, Parker, Butler (assuming he pans out), 2007 1st round pick (McRoberts), 2007 #33 on a multi-year contract with team options (koponen) -
total ~ 47,000,000 note that 2007 1st rounder and #33 will roughly total Udrih's cap commitment - 1st round pay scales jump sharply in the 3ed and 4th years)

$11,000,000 FA offer
total ~ 58,000,000

The 2008 NBA Free Agent Class (from hoopsworld, incomplete, players we might make a play for)
Player Option Year
Al Jefferson team '08
Emeka Okafor team '08
Nenad Krstic team '08
Andre Iguodala team '08
Gilbert Arenas player '08
Andris Biedrins team '08
Ben Gordon team '08
Richard Hamilton player '08
Jason Kidd player '08
Robert Swift team '08
Jermaine O'Neal player '08
Ron Artest player '08
Josh Childress team '08
Josh Smith team '08
Corey Maggette player '08
Shawn Marion player '08
Kevin Martin team '08
Dwight Howard team '08
Elton Brand player '08
Luol Deng team '08
Kevin Garnett team '08


6 players under contract, including 4 core guys - need to sign a minimum of 6 more players (likely 9), ~11,000,000 in pre-luxury tax space left...

Bird Rights - Oberto, Finley, Bowen, Barry, Horry
Early Bird Rights - Vaughn, Elson, White (he hasn't been with us long enough to have full bird rights), Singleton

Post Luxury tax space (ie. exceptions):

MLE
Bi Annual Exception (LLE)
2008 1st round pick (sign him after signing free agents), Rookie exception
Mahnimi (2005 1st round pick, rookie exception).

Team looks like this :
Bigs : Duncan, McRoberts, Mahnimi, Butler, Elson or Oberto (for the minimum)
Wings: Manu, White (early bird rights), Finley (resigned, vet minimum?),
PG's: Parker, Koponen, Vaugh (resigned, vet minimum?)

Big FA signing at Big or Wing
2008 1st round pick
+2 more players (Javtokas?, Singleton?, whomever...)

In summary, my way keeps us competing for the 07/08 championship, and sets up the future. Chucking a bunch of MLE money in there will restrict any signings in 2008 to MLE level contracts roughly... Which won't bring in the big fish!


All of your FA's in 08 are pipe dreams, with the exception of Robert Swift & I dont even know why he is listed in that group. Possibly Brand could opt out, but that too is a long shot. If we can pick up Nocioni for the MLE or better yet S&T Barry & Beno along with Scola for him this summer, it is a no brainer. Your plan sounds like what the Lakers had in mind, wanting to wait until Yao Ming & all the other big time players were SUPPOSED to be FA's, how did that work out for them?

[TDMVPDPOY]

All of your FA's in 08 are pipe dreams, with the exception of Robert Swift & I dont even know why he is listed in that group. Possibly Brand could opt out, but that too is a long shot. If we can pick up Nocioni for the MLE or better yet S&T Barry & Beno along with Scola for him this summer, it is a no brainer. Your plan sounds like what the Lakers had in mind, wanting to wait until Yao Ming & all the other big time players were SUPPOSED to be FA's, how did that work out for them?

barry + beno + scola? for nacioni seems to much to give up imo

delfino is a fkn scrub and got 2 picks for him.....

barru + beno + scola is worth more even if you trade them individually

[Bruno]

Daequan Cook will workout with Spurs

http://www.philly.com/inquirer/sports/20070616_Four_guards_show_their_stuff_in_Sixers_wo rkout.html


Except that the 6-foot-5 Cook has workouts scheduled for Utah, Golden State, San Antonio and Miami next week. He then said the obvious - that he was staying in the draft.

The full workout list is in the first post.

And stop hijacking this thread with some random (and useless) fantasy offseason scenario.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Updated mock draft on DX has us taking Belinelli with our 33 pick and Gray with the 28 still.

[Darkwaters]

I take Belinelli in a heartbeat with the 33. But I have absolutely no interest in Gray unless we're taking him at 58...or lower. I just don't see any need for another slow dreadnaught center.

[Darkwaters]

What do you guys think of drafting Brad Newley with the 58?

http://www.interbasket.net/players/newley2.jpg

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I don't really care who we draft at the 58 since we really won't see what they're made of until after a year in the Euroleague.

[Bruno]

I don't think Spurs will draft a big man this year (unless it's an euro who stay overseas).

Just look at next year Spurs big men :

Duncan : under contract.
Elson : under contract.
Butler : under contract.
Horry : under contract and won't retire.
Oberto : player option, it's not sure he will opt out and if he opts out, he will be a restricted free agent. Pop likes him.
Bonner : restricted free agent. Pop and PJ want him back, Bonner thinks he has good chances to sign with Spurs.
Mahinmi : Ludden has said that he will likely sign with Spurs this summer.
Scola : Spurs have said that they will consider him as an option this summer.

Based on infos (and not on speculations), 8 PF/C could be on Spurs roster next year :spin
A nba team has usualy 6 PF/C under contract and 5 on the active roster.

[picnroll]

Since Presti has signed on with Seattle they've arranged to bring in Glen Davis, Kyle Visser, Kyrylo Fesenko, Dmetrius Nichols, Adam Haluska and Quinton Hosley for workout. Some of these guys would be in the Spurs' first and second and Seattle's 2nd round pick range.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I don't want Bonner back, and I doubt Scola becomes a Spur EVER, and I think we will sign Mahinmi. So the frontline for me will look like:
C OBERTO/ELSON/BUTLER
PF DUNCAN/HORRY/MAHINMI

[Marcus Bryant]

With the #28 and #33 picks the Spurs have a good chance of landing a couple of eventual rotation players, especially in this draft. It would be disappointing if they didn't use both and perplexing if they didn't use the #33 on a NCAA prospect.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Since Presti has signed on with Seattle they've arranged to bring in Glen Davis, Kyle Visser, Kyrylo Fesenko, Dmetrius Nichols, Adam Haluska and Quinton Hosley for workout. Some of these guys would be in the Spurs' first and second and Seattle's 2nd round pick range.
The only one I think the Spurs will consider is Visser.

[Bruno]

I don't want Bonner back

No pun intented, but what Pop/PJ want will have a bigger influence on what Spurs will do than what #1elliottfan want.

[Steve-O-Matic]

So are we getting the 2nd rounder from Chicago (#53, I believe) or not??

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Nope.

[Darkwaters]

So are we getting the 2nd rounder from Chicago (#53, I believe) or not??

No

[Steve-O-Matic]

Why not? I thought it was supposed to be ours if its not in the top 51.

[Darkwaters]

Why not? I thought it was supposed to be ours if its not in the top 51.

Top 53 protected. We missed it by one spot.

[Steve-O-Matic]

Top 53 protected? On the first page it says top 51 protected, when did this change?

[spurscenter]

spurs need to keep stock piling talent in EUROPE

Scola is ready to go, so is Roberthas, Center, he is a monster (SP)

Dont waste picks like L. Barbosa just because we have no space or otehrs dont like him on the team like how we lost Gricek, I believe.

Spurs have tons of talent in Europe and I love that.

Re: US talent

I see UCLA Aaron Affolo alot, even play pickup ball at UCLA John Wooden Center with him when he comes and runs.

He is TOTAL spurs mentality. Nice, class act, friendly, coachable.

He is alot like a young Michael Finley, not just because they both wear #4.

He can be good but is streaky. Like a Dale Ellis.

Affolo does take some bad shots though, even at the pickup gym w hacks like me, lol

I think this is a solid pick but I really want the spurs to keep drafting 17 yo in Europe and leaving them to develop over there.

[Darkwaters]

I see Afflalo being the next JJ Redick. Great in college, sub-par in the pros. Now, to his credit, I don't see Aaron disappearing so completely as Redick did last year, but I think he will not be nearly as succesful at the pro level as he was college.

[Darkwaters]

Top 53 protected? On the first page it says top 51 protected, when did this change?

Apparently that fact was misreported for most of the year. We all thought it was top 51 protected until right near the end of the season conflicting reports indicated otherwise.

The Spurs are really closed about what all is exchanged in trades other than the specific players and I believe that tidbit was just skewed from the beginning.

[Slinkyman]

my spurs mock draft:

28: Kyrylo Fesenko
33: Taurean Green
58: Ali Traore

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

My mock draft:
28: Marco Belinelli
33: Zabian Dowdell
58: Darryl Watkins

Everything will come clearer in a 12 days. :smokin

[Mr. Body]

Top 53 protected? On the first page it says top 51 protected, when did this change?

A really fucking long time ago.

[colargol]

my spurs mock draft:

28: Kyrylo Fesenko
33: Taurean Green
58: Ali Traore


Green and Traore won't be available at 33 and 58

[spurscenter]

I see Afflalo being the next JJ Redick. Great in college, sub-par in the pros. Now, to his credit, I don't see Aaron disappearing so completely as Redick did last year, but I think he will not be nearly as succesful at the pro level as he was college.


yea I agree to an extent, but he has the nba body for a 2 guard.

[Darkwaters]

Green and Traore won't be available at 33 and 58

Green should be

[wildbill2u]

I take Belinelli in a heartbeat with the 33. But I have absolutely no interest in Gray unless we're taking him at 58...or lower. I just don't see any need for another slow dreadnaught center.
I think the current DX mock draft just assigns players according to the DX ranking of their talent rather than accommodating team needs which is where the real draft decisions are made.

I wish they'd start using the 'team needs' approach so we'd see where these players are really likely to go.

[wildbill2u]

I see Afflalo being the next JJ Redick. Great in college, sub-par in the pros. Now, to his credit, I don't see Aaron disappearing so completely as Redick did last year, but I think he will not be nearly as succesful at the pro level as he was college.
There are lots of tweeners in this draft. Here's the Draft Express take:

Whether it’s the 6’2” college shooting guard trying to convert to point guard or the 6’5” college power forward trying to convert to a wing, ‘Tweeners will cause many headaches for scouts trying to project them as NBA players. The ‘Tweener usually starts out as a lottery pick, because he has been using his “Charles Barkley height” (add two inches) all through college, but once NBA teams find out his true height, the ‘Tweener’s stock drops like a string of f-bombs by Chef Ramsey after some fat Applebee’s prep cook tries to serve a plate of salmonella to a table of unsuspecting LA socialites. (Dear Lord, thank you for giving me Hell’s Kitchen as an alternative to actually watching the NBA finals).

Historically, the only really successful Tweeners have been the ones who were allowed to play their natural positions, such as Allen Iverson at shooting guard, and Charles Barkley, Larry Johnson (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=2116#) and Antawn Jamison at power forward. Tweeners are like cheaters, you can’t change them; you just have to live with them.

On a positive note: There is good news for the Tweener. The combo guard is making a serious comeback thanks to guys like Leandrinho Barbosa and Ben Gordon (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=2116#) (who appeared in the first version of this article back in 2004). Touche Ben.

Recent Examples: Keyon Dooling, Shawn Respert, Khalid Reeves
Possible fits in 2007: Jeff Green (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=368), Al Thornton (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=591), Rodney Stuckey (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=1015), Alando Tucker (http://www.draftexpress.com/viewprofile.php?p=386)

[Bruno]

Tomorow is the withdrawal deadline.
Some of early entrants candidats will stay only because they have a first round promise (like Mahinmi). Why not by Spurs at 28 ?

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Wasn't there something about the Spurs giving a promise to Gabe Pruitt?

[tempest186]

Draftexpress just updated.

28: Petteri Koponen
33: Marco Belinelli
58: Brad Newley

[Darkwaters]

Draftexpress just updated.

28: Petteri Koponen
33: Marco Belinelli
58: Brad Newley

No immediate help, but a very solid draft regardless.

[ChumpDumper]

Draftexpress just updated.

28: Petteri Koponen
33: Marco Belinelli
58: Brad NewleyPretty realistic, but I see (hope for?) more of a wild card at 58.

[Darkwaters]

Pretty realistic, but I see (hope for?) more of a wild card at 58.

Agreed. I'm still like your idea of looking at Sun Yue with the 58. It's almost for sure that he'll go undrafted if we don't take him, but with such an intriguing skill set he makes for somebody worth drafting with the 3rd to last pick easily.

Although, if Ali Traore is still there (like some boards say he will be) then we have to snatch him up. We could use some more bigs in the "Euro Minors" if we really think Javtokas and Scola won't ever be Spurs.

[Darkwaters]

Is anybody familiar with Giorgos Printezis? I have seen his name start to pop up late in the second round on several mocks and I wanted to know what you thought of him.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Word is that the Knicks gave a promise to Wilson Chandler with the 23rd pick.


Chandler update: The official reason for DePaul’s Wilson Chandler skipping a workout with the Bulls this week was an ankle injury, not a shoulder injury, as was written here.

One league source suggested the reason Chandler has stopped working out for teams is he expects to be chosen by New York with the 23rd pick, which would be an eye-opener. Most projections have the 6-8 forward going in the second round.

http://www.realgm.com/rgmow.php?aid=46545

Not likely that this affects the Spurs. Just giving information.

[Darkwaters]

Word is that the Knicks gave a promise to Wilson Chandler with the 23rd pick.



http://www.realgm.com/rgmow.php?aid=46545

Not likely that this affects the Spurs. Just giving information.

Sounds like an Isiah Thomas type thing to do. I mean, who saw Renaldo Balkman coming? Seriously?

Thats good though. That'll let another quality player slip through that wasn't supposed to be there at 28 or 33. It will be especially nice considering that most of the mocks were predicting Isiah to draft a foreign player there (Belinelli or Splitter).

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I was laughing my ass off last year when he picked Balkman.

[Mr. Body]

Balkman was a great pick. He had better numbers than Tyrus Thomas last year.

Wilson Chandler impacts the Spurs, if NYK takes him, because that's another team that could take Morris Almond, etc., meaning smone will come free.

[Darkwaters]

Wilson Chandler impacts the Spurs, if NYK takes him, because that's another team that could take Morris Almond, etc., meaning smone will come free.

Exactly.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Dominic James withdrew.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/news/story?id=2907168&campaign=rss&source=NBAHeadlines


Marquette sophomore G Dominic James will withdraw from the NBA draft and return to school, Marquette coach Tom Crean told ESPN.com Sunday.

"I discussed it over with my family, and it's the best thing for me. I feel like another year of college, or maybe even two, will set me up for the future," James, who averaged a team-high 14.9 points and 4.9 assists last season, told the paper.

[Marcus Bryant]

Rodrigue Beaubois (http://www.nbadraft.net/admincp/profiles/rodriguebeaubois.html)

Anyone know about him?

[Marcus Bryant]

Rodrigue Beaubois 6’2” 168 PG France 1988 *Early Entry-Draft -- Surely a name for the future, Beaubois (pronounced Bow-Bwah) has a 6'9 wingspan on a 6'2 frame. He's extremely quick and explosive and competed hard in the first and only day he played. He's got a bit of a sling action on his jumpshot, but his touch seems good. Scouts compared him to Rajon Rondo due to his quickness and athleticism, although his shooting shows more potential. He reminded me a lot of Arizona bound PG Brandon Jennings (rising high school senior) with the same swagger on the floor. He suffered a hamstring injury the second day which kept him out of the rest of the camp. Beaubois is a specimen with great attributes to play the point guard position. His arms make him play like a 6'5" guy and his vision and passing is solid. He still has a long long ways to go in figuring out the point guard position as it is the toughest to master, but he's on his way to becoming a future first round pick. Beaubois might have the most upside, but right now there's a long way to go, so he has to earn it.

link (http://www.nbadraft.net/2007eurocamp008.asp)

Seems like a good candidate for #58, if he is indeed draft eligible as I read it.

[Darkwaters]

link (http://www.nbadraft.net/2007eurocamp008.asp)

Seems like a good candidate for #58, if he is indeed draft eligible as I read it.

Again...he has been said to have multiple second round promises that are well above the 58th...that is, if he stays in the draft at all. If we do find ourselves with the opportunity to take him with the 58th however then it is without a doubt a no brainer. I just don't see it happening.

[Darkwaters]

If Marco Belinelli does slip into the second round what is to stop Seattle from scooping him up with the 31? Clearly, with Presti at the reigns, international scouting is of great importance to him. And with Ray Allen aging it is likely true that he will need to have a plan to replace him. Do we really think we can grab Belinelli two picks later than the Sonics?

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Freaking Sam Presti!

[Marcus Bryant]

If Marco Belinelli does slip into the second round what is to stop Seattle from scooping him up with the 31? Clearly, with Presti at the reigns, international scouting is of great importance to him. And with Ray Allen aging it is likely true that he will need to have a plan to replace him. Do we really think we can grab Belinelli two picks later than the Sonics?

Take him at #28 then. That makes a lot more sense as you can let him play with Tau for another season and then use #33 on a domestic.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Quick question: How many players on one team can go to the D-league? 2 or 3?

[ChumpDumper]

I imagine they could send down three, but any more than two would be bad form because the team would have to start waiving their players to make room for them. It's one of the rule I don't like with the D-League.

[timvp]

I'm pretty sure two is the maximum.

[ChumpDumper]

You're probably right. Been drinking.

[AFBlue]

Pruitt withdrew from draft....that is, Shaun Pruitt the Center from Illinois...

[AFBlue]

Early Reports....

In:
DeVon Hardin
Ramon Sessions
JamesOn Curry

Out:
Dominic James (previously mentioned)
Marcellus Kemp

LIKELY In:
Mike Conley Jr.
Dequan Cook
Jason Smith
Spencer Hawes

ON THE FENCE:
Jeff Green
Sean Singletary
Thaddeus Young

[Mr. Body]

Pruitt withdrew from draft....that is, Shaun Pruitt the Center from Illinois...

I had a heart palpitation, damn you. Not that I'm sold on Gabe, but he's one of the better b-u points available.

[Mr. Body]

I'd not be surprised to see Jeff Green pull out of the draft.

[AFBlue]

I had a heart palpitation, damn you. Not that I'm sold on Gabe, but he's one of the better b-u points available.

Had the same reaction when I saw the headline in a listing of articles....

Again, not that he's the next great one, but I would love to have him on this team as a combo guard. Fernandez is my #1 choice at 28, but Pruitt is a close second.

[Mr. Body]

There's a great podcast interview of Morris Almond on DX's frontpage right now. Almond seems like he could talk forever, but Givony talks with him for about thirty minutes. The guy is smart, as you'd expect for a Rice Owl, and has a lot of interesting things to say about the process, even around his 'staying neutral' approach. I was gravitating to putting Almond on my personal short list, but this cements him further. At this point I'd probably take him before Belinelli.

[Darkwaters]

I think Fernandez is a can't miss prospect. I like him that much. But unless we make a trade we won't be able to snatch him away. Is there any chance that we trade the 28 and 33 to move up and grab him (or would that be too expensive)?

Also, just how bad is his buyout next year? Would he HAVE to wait a year before he can come over or is next season not out of the question? If Finley walks we need someone to replace him.

[Mr. Body]

Is there any chance that we trade the 28 and 33 to move up and grab him (or would that be too expensive)?

Maybe. I've long thought a good option for the Miamis and Houstons of the world, who have multiple needs, would be to trade down. Fernandez is gone by the Rox' pick, but Fernandez could be around at #20. Would this be too expensive? Well, if the Spurs think he's head and shoulders above anyone else they could get, then why not?

[AFBlue]

I think Fernandez is a can't miss prospect. I like him that much. But unless we make a trade we won't be able to snatch him away. Is there any chance that we trade the 28 and 33 to move up and grab him (or would that be too expensive)?

Also, just how bad is his buyout next year? Would he HAVE to wait a year before he can come over or is next season not out of the question? If Finley walks we need someone to replace him.

Your question about his buyout is the same question every GM who likes him will ask themselves. It's the same reason that he might be there at #28....because his buyout has probably yet to be negotiated without even a ballpark figure.

I'm not saying he'll be there at #28, but he's got more chance than you give him...

[AFBlue]

Here's a quick nugget from Chad Ford on Draft Rumblings over the weekend. He says Koponen and Belinelli are likely to stay in the draft and that Koponen has received interest from late first round guys (including the Spurs).

I don't know if I like Koponen at #28 or #33, but I guess I'll have to start warming to the possibility....

http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?entryID=2907609&name=ford_chad&CMP=ILC-INHEAD


Koponen, in particular, is a nice story. Even though the Orlando predraft camp selection committee wouldn't put Koponen in the camp, several teams, including the Knicks, Suns and Spurs, are considering drafting him in the first round.

[picnroll]

Here's more on Koponen. Hope the Spurs get him.

http://draftexpress.com/viewarticle.php?a=2121

[AFBlue]

More Nuggets....


The deadline for underclassmen to withdraw from the draft is Monday at 5 p.m. ET.

With Cal center Devon Hardin stating he's staying in the draft and Marquette point guard Dominic James pulling out of the draft, teams around the NBA are really holding their breath on two players -- Georgetown's Jeff Green and Georgia Tech's Thaddeus Young. They are the only two top players still widely believed to be on the fence.


About Hawks @ #3

Our first and second editions of the mock draft had Mike Conley there. Version 3.0 had Brandon Wright.

For our next version, Al Horford will replace Wright. Sources say Horford is the Hawks' favorite at the moment -- though they could still trade the pick.
That news should come as a blow to both Memphis (No. 4) and Milwaukee (No. 6), both of whom also have Horford ranked No. 3 (behind Greg Oden and Kevin Durant).

[Bruno]

Your question about his buyout is the same question every GM who likes him will ask themselves. It's the same reason that he might be there at #28....because his buyout has probably yet to be negotiated without even a ballpark figure.


Fernandez buyout is €1.6M ($2.14M).

[AFBlue]

Fernandez buyout is €1.6M ($2.14M).

That means he would have to be drafted in the mid-first round, because teams can only contribute $500K to the buyout and the rest would come from his salary....he would basically be playing for free, unless he got picked in the lottery.

That is, unless he's got a couple million under his mattress.

Thanks for the info, though.

[Bruno]

^ I guess the nba team, that drafts him, can too pick the options on the third and fourth years of his rookie contract, when he sign it, to help Fernandey to pay his buyout.

[Mr. Body]

Players with buyouts don't have to pay everything all at once - they can pay in installments. Cuban isn't paying Finley's contract all at once, either.

Still, it's ultimately Fernandez's choice to make. If the buyout is lower after this year, he may as well stay out, since it's almost completely out of his pocket.

[Mr. Body]

Word is Thaddeus Young is staying in the draft. No word on Green.

[AFBlue]

Word is Thaddeus Young is staying in the draft. No word on Green.


Green is supposedly meeting with his Georgetown coach today and the decision might come down to the wire....for the Spurs' sake, I hope he stays in.

Young looks like a lottery pick if he stays....no reason not to.

[Mr. Body]

Word is now coming through that both Spencer Hawes and Jeff Green are staying in the draft.

[AFBlue]

Thad Young In....

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/news/story?id=2907896


Georgia Tech freshman Thaddeus Young has decided to stay in the 2007 NBA draft.

The move is expected. Young is projected by most NBA teams as a Top 15 pick. Last week Young was invited by the NBA to sit in the Green Room, a good sign that he'd go in the top half of the draft.

He joins teammate Javaris Crittenton, another freshman who decided to bolt Georgia Tech after one year.

[AFBlue]

Here's the ESPN Article updated just 5 minutes ago, says Green will go in the Draft...

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/news/story?id=2907965


Source: Likely high pick Green to stay in draft
By Chad Ford
ESPN.com
(Archive)
Updated: June 18, 2007, 1:52 PM ET

Green, the Big East player of the year during the Hoyas' run to this year's Final Four, has been going back and forth the last few weeks trying to decide whether to remain in the draft. While most teams have Green ranked anywhere from the fifth pick to No. 12 in the draft, the lure of returning to Georgetown for his senior season and competing for a national championship was tempting.

However, the source said that, at the end of the day, Green got advice from numerous sources that his draft position was too good to bypass.

Green, a 6-foot-9 multi-dimensional forward, is considered one of the more NBA-ready prospects in the draft. The Celtics are considering him with the fifth pick. The Bucks (No. 6), Timberwolves (seventh), Bobcats (eighth), Bulls (ninth), Kings (10th) and Sixers (12th) also have interest in selecting Green.

Green has been conducting workouts at Georgetown for teams the past few weeks. The Celtics, Bucks, Bobcats, Bulls and Sixers have made the trip to see him work out.

Monday is the deadline for underclassmen to withdraw their names from the draft. Earlier, freshman Roy Hibbert decided to remain at Georgetown for his sophomore season.

Chad Ford covers the NBA for ESPN Insider.

[Darkwaters]

Good. Increased depth in this draft means more and more players will slide.

Now I hope that Marco Belinelli and Petteri Koponen stay in. And for that matter, I'm curious about Rodrigue Beaubois.

[Darkwaters]

I've heard in the past that Jonas Maciulis was not interested in coming to the NBA. Is there any truth to that? If hes there at 58 then I think he'd be a great pick...assuming the NBA is of any interest to him at all.

[ThomasGranger]

Draft Express has the Spurs picking Koponen in the first round.

http://www.draftexpress.com/mymock.php?page=official

Hmmm, a white European PG who does well enough in the workouts to get selected in the late first round. Somehow I don't think the Spurs will go down that road again.

What really spooked me about him was the DX comparisons:

Best Case: Beno Udrih

Worst Case: Teemu Rannikko

[AFBlue]

Ouch....yeah like I said, I dunno about Koponen with the 28th pick, but it wouldn't suprise me.

[Darkwaters]

Ouch....yeah like I said, I dunno about Koponen with the 28th pick, but it wouldn't suprise me.

Just hope to God that Rudy slips to us.

[AFBlue]

Just hope to God that Rudy slips to us.

:drool:

Just thinking about it...

But I do wonder if the Spurs even have interest, because I haven't seen anything printed and I don't believe he's been in for a workout. Same for Belinelli...

The only one that I like at that spot that has been mentioned in Pruitt....that'd be nice!

[picnroll]

Draft Express has the Spurs picking Koponen in the first round.

http://www.draftexpress.com/mymock.php?page=official

Hmmm, a white European PG who does well enough in the workouts to get selected in the late first round. Somehow I don't think the Spurs will go down that road again.

What really spooked me about him was the DX comparisons:

Best Case: Beno Udrih

Worst Case: Teemu Rannikko
In contrast to Beno who was in the last year of draft eligibilty and had knocks of being soft and of questionable work ethic, Koponen is just 19, was described as setting Stockton type picks and holding his own againts Rose and Mayo who will be at the top of the '08 draft class.

If Spurs have seen him and he has the goods he'd be good to park for a year and bring in with the '08 rebuilding class. Ninety five percent chance anybody that they draft this late is going to have an impact next year regardless.

[AFBlue]

In contrast to Beno who was in the last year of draft eligibilty and had knocks of being soft and of questionable work ethic, Koponen is just 19, was described as setting Stockton type picks and holding his own againts Rose and Mayo who will be at the top of the '08 draft class.

If Spurs have seen him and he has the goods he'd be good to park for a year and bring in with the '08 rebuilding class. Ninety five percent chance anybody that they draft this late is going to have an impact next year regardless.

Not to be contrary, but I think backup PG is actually one area that a rookie could legitimately get time at. Yes, I believe the Spurs will attempt to retain Vaughn for minimal money, and I do expect them to at least entertain the idea that Beno isn't completely useless...but if the Spurs like a PG-type, I expect them to take that player with the intention of using them.

If Gabe Pruitt is the guy at #28, I expect him to vie for legitimate backup minutes.

[AFBlue]

SHOCKER....Hardin takes his name out of draft, says he wants to be Lottery Pick!

Sucks....

http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/news/story?id=2908057


Hardin takes name out of NBA draft
By Andy Katz
ESPN.com
(Archive)
Updated: June 18, 2007, 2:55 PM ET


DeVon Hardin wants to be a lottery pick when he leaves for the NBA and because of that Hardin has decided to withdraw from the draft and return to Cal for his senior season, Hardin's father Michael told ESPN.com on Monday.

The news comes on the heels of a San Francisco Chronicle story Sunday that said Hardin will sign with an agent.

Hardin's father told ESPN.com on Monday afternoon that "the report was inaccurate. We have pulled his name out." The deadline to withdraw for the June 28th draft was 5 p.m. ET on Monday.

The decision is a huge boon for Cal, which now has one of the top frontcourt tandems in the West with Hardin and Ryan Anderson for the 2007-08 season.

Hardin had a stress fracture last season played in only 11 games. But his stock was soaring through workouts.

Michael Hardin father said DeVon worked out for New Jersey, New York (in the same workout), Houston, Miami, Washington, Philadelphia, Detroit, Golden State and the L.A. Lakers. Hardin said he paid the expenses for the trip, which allows DeVon to retain his eligibility.

"It was a dent, but it's part of it," Michael said. "It's what you have to do."

Hardin said his son's decision came down to wanting to be a lottery pick next season.

"We thought do that rather than rush in it this year," Hardin said. "That was the main decision in spite of the positive feed back."

Hardin said his son was told that he needs to improve defensively in some areas but that "athletically they thought he was off the charts. This is a kid who wants to play. He doesn't want to be put in the D League. He's got an absolutely great shot at making himself a lottery pick next year."

Hardin immediately becomes one of the premier big men returning to college next season in a league that is loaded up front with Stanford sophomore Brook Lopez, UCLA incoming freshman Kevin Love, USC sophomore Taj Gibson and Washington's Jon Brockman.

[Mr. Body]

Just hope to God that Rudy slips to us.

Just wondering - are you a fan of Fernandez?

:spin

[picnroll]

Not to be contrary, but I think backup PG is actually one area that a rookie could legitimately get time at. Yes, I believe the Spurs will attempt to retain Vaughn for minimal money, and I do expect them to at least entertain the idea that Beno isn't completely useless...but if the Spurs like a PG-type, I expect them to take that player with the intention of using them.

If Gabe Pruitt is the guy at #28, I expect him to vie for legitimate backup minutes.
You can go back 10 years of draft history and find 3 guys taken in the first round after the 24th pick that could get playoff minutes as a PG, Parker, Tinsley and maybe Farmar in desperation. And this is considered a weak year for PGs.

Koponen is staying in so I assume that means someone's given him a first round guarantee.

[AFBlue]

You can go back 10 years of draft history and find 3 guys taken in the first round after the 24th pick that could get playoff minutes as a PG, Parker, Tinsley and maybe Farmar in desperation. And this is considered a weak year for PGs.

Koponen is staying in so I assume that means someone's given him a first round guarantee.

I see your point, but with all due respect, your point has nothing to do with the '07-'08 Spurs...

If the Spurs do re-sign Jacque Vaughn it's inherently understood that he's the incumbent backup PG. But Vaughn certainly isn't immune from competition, and I wouldn't say he's one of the better backups in the league....he does his job effectively but doesn't provide any "umph".

If Pruitt came in and provided a scoring punch as well as size/energy off the bench, I think Vaughn (who was originally brought in as a third-string type anyways) could get beat out.

Obviously I'm being speculative because there's no telling whether Pruitt is the guy or if Pruitt would even perform that well...but to sugges that there's little chance of it happening based on history doesn't hold water in the present.

[AFBlue]

Just read a report on DX that says the young French PG (Beaubois) pulled his name from the draft....smart, considering he'll likely be in the first-round conversation next year if he keeps improving.

[AFBlue]

Couple more nuggets....

Sean Singletary of Virginia said to be "out"

Jason Smith of Colorado St said to be "in"

[medstudent]

Just saw a youtube video of Belinelli.

That guy looks like a young Bones with a JJ Redick stroke.

When was the last time the Spurs had a guard that could come off a pick and shoot a moving J? Pretty much never

I'm getting excited

[medstudent]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNxZ4_O8R8M

[Darkwaters]

Just saw a youtube video of Belinelli.

That guy looks like a young Bones with a JJ Redick stroke.

When was the last time the Spurs had a guard that could come off a pick and shoot a moving J? Pretty much never

I'm getting excited

I do have some concerns about him though.

- He is in love with his outside shot and, despite having a very decent slashing game, tends to only shoot outside shots
- He frequently fades away or contorts his body during a shot for no apparent reason...thereby increasing the difficulty of the shot.
- Not very fond of defense.

All of those issues I believe can be "coached out" of the kid, however. And he has a sweet stroke. But hes not ready to contribute just yet.

[medstudent]

- He frequently fades away or contorts his body during a shot for no apparent reason...thereby increasing the difficulty of the shot.


good call.

looks like a bit of a showboat at times also. But it looks like he thrives on adversity which gets a :tu

[JPB]

I think Aaron Miles, who will play in Spurs summer league team, could be that back up PG.
Problem is, Spurs could really figure this out only after the draft even if they have seen him play all year long with Pau in France.

[ChumpDumper]

I think Aaron Miles, who will play in Spurs summer league team, could be that back up PG.
Problem is, Spurs could really figure this out only after the draft even if they have seen him play all year long with Pau in France.That's part of the reason I think they'll pick that Finnish kid in the first round. Miles could play next year if Beno is moved and Kopponen can stay overseas until we use up all that cap space in 08.

[pad300]

This is an interesting bit by Chad Ford about using a tier system to choose draft picks...

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/insider/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=TierSystem&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba %2fdraft2007%2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumni st%3dford_chad%26page%3dTierSystem

[Darkwaters]

That's part of the reason I think they'll pick that Finnish kid in the first round. Miles could play next year if Beno is moved and Kopponen can stay overseas until we use up all that cap space in 08.

I still think we have a good shot at Theodoras Papaloukas as well. I think he'd be a great fit with the Spurs if his game will translate to the NBA well. I keep seeing him playing on the floor with Parker playing off the ball and being able to cut and move and not run the offense.

But I really like have Aaron Miles in case that doesn't work out. I think he'd be a great backup if Papaloukas doesn't come to SA and would have no problem taking him.

[wildbill2u]

This is an interesting bit by Chad Ford about using a tier system to choose draft picks...

http://insider.espn.go.com/nba/draft2007/insider/columns/story?columnist=ford_chad&page=TierSystem&action=login&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba %2fdraft2007%2finsider%2fcolumns%2fstory%3fcolumni st%3dford_chad%26page%3dTierSystem
You're right and it seems like a very good system--if the scouts guess right on which players to put in which tiers.

[AFBlue]

God I love how everyone slams Billy Knight! He even gets mention in this Ford article. If only the ownership would understand what a complete moron this guy is...

[Bruno]

Jacob Burtschi won't finally work out with Spurs :
http://www.gazette.com/sports/nwaelele_23781___article.html/air_nba.html


Jacob Burtschi, who graduated with Nwaelele and worked out for the Phoenix Suns earlier this month, said he doesn’t have any more NBA tryouts set up.

Jamaal Tatum has worked out with Spurs :
http://media.www.siude.com/media/storage/paper1096/news/2007/06/19/MBasketball/Will-To.Succeed.Or.Pure.Nba.Talent-2916009.shtml


He attended a pre-draft camp in Orlando, Fl. From May 29-June 4 and since then has been invited for five workouts with the Sacremento Kings, Houston Rockets, Cleveland Cavaliers, San Antonio Spurs and the Golden State Warriors, Neff said.

Spurs interested in Wilson Chandler :
http://www.nypost.com/seven/06192007/sports/knicks/drafting_a_sleeper_holds_interest_for_isiah_knicks _marc_berman.htm


According to a person close to Chandler, the Spurs, Bulls, Knicks and Trail Blazers have shown the most interest.

[Bruno]

The deadline for pulling out of the draft was yesterday. Still waiting the official list but it seems that very few international players will stay in the draft.

[ChumpDumper]

:tu on Chandler. Youth, size and athleticism. Raw, but a decent #33 pick.

[mountainballer]

All of those issues I believe can be "coached out" of the kid, however. And he has a sweet stroke. But hes not ready to contribute just yet.

if he is there, when Spurs pick, he will be a steal.
(same goes for Fernandez)
of course he isn't ready to contribute like a veteran and also not like Manu, who was 25 when he came to SA. but he still brings a lot more expirience of pro BB than any college player (Belinelli started playing professional at 17).
so, if he came here this summer, he would be in a very good situation to be able to get used to NBA in the first year and get a more important role, when some of our veterans will retire. I think in his 2nd year he will be able to provide a significant impact.
I have no doubt that he could be a very usefull player in the Spurs system. maybe not a future starter, but for sure he can provide most of what Barry did.

[wildbill2u]

Just saw a youtube video of Belinelli.

That guy looks like a young Bones with a JJ Redick stroke.

When was the last time the Spurs had a guard that could come off a pick and shoot a moving J? Pretty much never

I'm getting excited
Me Too! I watched the video and he made 100% of his shots. FANtastic!

[Mr. Body]

I'm less sold on Belinelli than I was before. His shaky production and some questions about his attitude, aside from any buyout issues, have me skeptical. While I'd love to have him, if he fell, I'm thinking at this point Morris Almond is the better pick at SG.

[AFBlue]

I'm less sold on Belinelli than I was before. His shaky production and some questions about his attitude, aside from any buyout issues, have me skeptical. While I'd love to have him, if he fell, I'm thinking at this point Morris Almond is the better pick at SG.

I would honestly go in the other direction. Both have their strengths/weaknesses and while I'd be inclined to agree with you on Almond being the better all-around player, there is more to consider....

1. The cap sitution
2. The roster situation
3. The team "needs"

[Mr. Body]

We're in pretty poor shape if we haven't the money or the roster space to bring over a good rookie like Morris Almond. If our true concern is to pick and stash, then Belinelli would be fine, but I hope that's not the case.

[Darkwaters]

We're in pretty poor shape if we haven't the money or the roster space to bring over a good rookie like Morris Almond. If our true concern is to pick and stash, then Belinelli would be fine, but I hope that's not the case.


If we were to draft and stash a wing player it would be a one year situation. Frankly, Bowen is slowing and Finley is probably out the door within the next 12 months (if not way sooner). We need help very soon. I can wait a year, but no longer.

[AFBlue]

If the Spurs went international with either or both of their first two picks, I guarantee the intent would be to bring them over NLT summer '08. And I can live with that...but that's just me.

[Mr. Body]

I'm just saying that we're getting hard ons about Belinelli because we're comparing him to Ginobili, but it's likely the next effective star or role player in our system doesn't fit quite the same mold as before.

[TDMVPDPOY]

why dont we just trade these picks for next years picks....

[picnroll]

DraftExpress and NBADraft.net now both have Koponen as the Spurs pick in the first round which about clinches it. Koponen won't be picked by the Spurs.

[AFBlue]

DraftExpress and NBADraft.net now both have Koponen as the Spurs pick in the first round which about clinches it. Koponen won't be picked by the Spurs.


Make it 3 for 3....

Chad Ford of ESPN just debuted his latest mock, and it has Koponen as the Spurs' pick.

[mountainballer]

DraftExpress and NBADraft.net now both have Koponen as the Spurs pick in the first round which about clinches it. Koponen won't be picked by the Spurs.

draftexpress also has Beno as his best case comparison.:lol
that's harsh

[T Park]

The more I read, the more I like Morris Almond.

Dude sounds like the next coming of Michael Finley IMO,

[Mr. Body]

Almond is emotionally mature as well as physically. He may not be the best defender at the moment, but has the head to play good team defense, even if he'll never be a stopper. He's a great shooter and gets to the line at a high clip, where he makes almost everything, and is a pretty good rebounder for the position. He has the size and strength to contribute right away.

[AFBlue]

.

[AFBlue]

Some other interesting Ford notes...

Clippers and Suns are working on a trade that would send Maggette and the #14 pick to the Suns for Boris Diaw, #24, #29, and Suns 1st rounder in 2008. It's unclear who the Suns would pick at #14 as well as who the Clips would pick at #24.

Another rumor quoted is the Sixers trying to trade up using the first two of their three picks (#12 and #21) to grab a player like Horford or Brendan Wright.

If neither of those deals flesh out, both the Sixers and Suns would likely look to deal out of one or two of their picks...

Picks he lists as possibly for sale:

Boston @ #5
Heat @ #20
Sixers @ #21
Bobcats @ #22
Suns @ #24
Suns @ #29
Sixers @ #30

It looks like there's ample opportunity for the Spurs to trade up if they're enamored with a player that's likely to be gone by #28....but I'm not sure they've identified a player in that range.

[AFBlue]

Almond is emotionally mature as well as physically. He may not be the best defender at the moment, but has the head to play good team defense, even if he'll never be a stopper. He's a great shooter and gets to the line at a high clip, where he makes almost everything, and is a pretty good rebounder for the position. He has the size and strength to contribute right away.

Almond sounds alot like Maggette...without all the head problems.

....and that's a compliment.

I certainly wouldn't mind seeing him in a Spurs Uni.

[Mr. Body]

Physically, Almond is like Maggette, and has the stellar free throw percentage to match... Maggette might be the better rebounder, but Almond is probably by far the better shooter.

[T Park]

Yeah, IMO, Almond is the man to get.

He sounds like the missing piece.

How tall is he?

If hes 6'8. Then, hes the man.

[EvenFlow]

He's 6'6, but has a 6'10 wingspan. Actually, I think he could become a pretty decent defender if he just applied himself.

[AFBlue]

Jacob Burtschi won't finally work out with Spurs :
http://www.gazette.com/sports/nwaelele_23781___article.html/air_nba.html



Jamaal Tatum has worked out with Spurs :
http://media.www.siude.com/media/storage/paper1096/news/2007/06/19/MBasketball/Will-To.Succeed.Or.Pure.Nba.Talent-2916009.shtml



Spurs interested in Wilson Chandler :
http://www.nypost.com/seven/06192007/sports/knicks/drafting_a_sleeper_holds_interest_for_isiah_knicks _marc_berman.htm

Bruno,

Is this post, plus what is on page 1 the latest on Spurs workouts?

After all, we seem to be speculating on alot of players (Fernandez, Belinelli, Koponen, Almond, Byars, Dudley) that the Spurs haven't brought in for a workout.

So far, the only players we've mentioned as being interested in seeing that the Spurs have also worked out are Pruitt and Dowdell.

Does anyone know if any of the other players we've mentioned are scheduled for workouts?

BTW, ESPNs Chad Ford is reporting a rumor regarding Wilson Chandler...


The skinny: The Knicks are rumored to have made a promise to the DePaul forward. That may explain why Chandler has been dropping workout after workout. If it's not the Knicks, it sure sounds like someone in the first round has gotten ahold of him. (Spurs?)

Chandler is an interesting player -- he's one of the best athletes in the draft and can play a little 3 and 4. However, he doesn't quite have the motor that Isiah Thomas usually prizes in a prospect, and he doesn't fit the need at shooting guard they've been searching for.

[ChumpDumper]

After all, we seem to be speculating on alot of players (Fernandez, Belinelli, Koponen, Almond, Byars, Dudley) that the Spurs haven't brought in for a workout.I don't read too much into that. Spurs' scouts can sit in on combined workouts or feel like they saw enough of a guy at one camp or another to draw a conclusion.
BTW, ESPNs Chad Ford is reporting a rumor regarding Wilson Chandler... He's young enough and has enough perceived upside to be taken in the first round -- especially by Zeke.

[T Park]

He's 6'6, but has a 6'10 wingspan. Actually, I think he could become a pretty decent defender if he just applied himself.

by george its the long three.

Draft him I say.

[Bruno]

I do some google news search every couple days when I see that Spurs have worked out a player, I report it in this thread.

It's likely that Spurs have worked out other players : Spurs don't say who they have worked out (unlike some teams).

[AFBlue]

I don't read too much into that. Spurs' scouts can sit in on combined workouts or feel like they saw enough of a guy at one camp or another to draw a conclusion.

I understand that individual workouts aren't the only method for scouts to review players (with combined workouts and game tapes readily available), but it would indicate that the Spurs focused a little more on one player over the other and can make a confident decision.


He's young enough and has enough perceived upside to be taken in the first round -- especially by Zeke.

There's the long 3/small ball 4 that the Spurs would like to see...

[AFBlue]

I do some google news search every couple days when I see that Spurs have worked out a player, I report it in this thread.

It's likely that Spurs have worked out other players : Spurs don't say who they have worked out (unlike some teams).

Okay...thanks for clearing that up. Again, I don't think it's a big deal, but it would give me some comfort to know that I'm not just pulling for the Spurs to draft a guy and it being in vain.

[ChumpDumper]

I understand that individual workouts aren't the only method for scouts to review players (with combined workouts and game tapes readily available), but it would indicate that the Spurs focused a little more on one player over the other and can make a confident decision.Which is why the Spurs don't give out that information themselves.


There's the long 3/small ball 4 that the Spurs would like to see...We live in hope.

[wildbill2u]

:tu on Chandler. Youth, size and athleticism. Raw, but a decent #33 pick.
At 33 would you rather have McGuire or Chandler. I haven't seen either of them so am just going off written reports. They seem to have the same attributes of athleticism and size.

[AFBlue]

At 33 would you rather have McGuire or Chandler. I haven't seen either of them so am just going off written reports. They seem to have the same attributes of athleticism and size.

McGuire seems to be more of a project and it's a little scary to take a player based on only one year of real production....BUT, those numbers were damn good.

McGuire and Chandler have similar scoring numbers, but McGuire has much better rebounding numbers (9.8rpg to 6.9rpg), dishes more assists (though the a/t ratio is similar), blocks a hell of alot more shots (3.6 to 1.6), and shoot a similar percentage from field (and horribly from line).

Certainly McGuire is more of a project, but he has enough talent defensively to stick with the Spurs while he refines the other aspects of his game. If the Spurs went McGuire at #33 I would be pleased, but I wouldn't be mad about Chandler either.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Official List Of Players Staying In Draft Released
19th June, 2007 - 2:51 pm
RealGM -
The following is the list of players from U.S colleges and institutions who remain early entry candidates for the 2007 NBA Draft:

Arron Afflalo, UCLA
Shagari Alleyne, Manhattan
Corey Brewer, Florida
Dwight Brewington, Liberty
Wilson Chandler, DePaul
Michael Conley Jr., Ohio State
Daequan Cook, Ohio State
Javaris Crittenton, Georgia Tech
JamesOn Curry, Oklahoma State
Glen Davis, LSU
Kevin Durant, Texas
Jeff Green, Georgetown
Taurean Green, Florida
Spencer Hawes, Washington
Al Horford, Florida
Robert Earl Johnson, Clinton JC (SC)
Kellen Lee, Los Angeles City College
Dominic McGuire, Fresno State
Josh McRoberts, Duke
Joakim Noah, Florida
Kendaris Pelton, Southern Mississippi
Gabe Pruitt, Southern California
Ramon Sessions, Nevada
Jason Smith, Colorado State
Rodney Stuckey, Eastern Washington
Marcus Williams, Arizona
Sean Williams, Boston College
Brandan Wright, North Carolina
Julian Wright, Kansas
Nick Young, Southern California
Thaddeus Young, Georgia Tech

The following is the list of international players who have applied for early entry into the 2007 NBA Draft:

Ralfi Silva Ansaloni, Praia Club (Brazil)
Stanko Barac, Siroki (Bosnia)
Marco Belinelli, Climamio Bologna (Italy)
Kyrylo Fesenko, Cherkasy (Ukraine)
Petteri Koponen, Honka (Finland)
Yi Jianlian, Guandong Southern Tigers (China)

[Bruno]

Ralfi Silva Ansaloni
Spurs 28th pick.

[TDMVPDPOY]

i say we either move up into the first round, or move up in the second round

or trade our first for 2 2nd rounders...portland has 4 2nd round picks...

[leemajors]

what's that TDMVPDPOY?

[AFBlue]

Ralfi Silva Ansaloni
Spurs 28th pick.

:lol

I hear he has Barbosa's speed, Nene's power, and Varajao's energy/fiery competitiveness....Brazilian GOAT!

[tempest186]

So does this mean that Fernandez is out? I am not sure if he was an early entry or not.

[pad300]

So does this mean that Fernandez is out? I am not sure if he was an early entry or not.

No, Fernandez is in - he has reached the age limit.

[AFBlue]

So does this mean that Fernandez is out? I am not sure if he was an early entry or not.

Note that it also did not list college seniors (i.e. Dowdell, Byars)....

[MoSpur]

I would love ffor Derrick Byars to drop to the Spurs.

[YODA]

Could anyone clear up the Scola Situation. Sounds like a never ending record with this guy. I know we havehsi rights, but are we ever gonna bring him over or what?

Yoda

[AFBlue]

Could anyone clear up the Scola Situation. Sounds like a never ending record with this guy. I know we havehsi rights, but are we ever gonna bring him over or what?

Yoda

Read "Updates: Luis Scola" or any do a general search and you'll find out more than you ever wanted to know about him....

Long story short, Spurs have his rights will try to bring him over this off-season or look to trade him. If he isn't traded, he'll be with the team by summer of 08 at the latest, when the Spurs have cap and roster space.

[YODA]

Is Scola a Cap problem? is he asking some crazy price? Whyt not bring him in this year to learn the system even if he isnt on the active roster?? Just seems like a logical thing to do. its gonna take him a year to learn the system and the guys not getting any younger. Be sad to waste such a talent in his prime. OH well, not like Im a BB scout expert.

Yoda

[Mr. Body]

Not a big cap problem, not really asking for too much. Can't bring him over while not on the roster.

[timvp]

I want to start about ten individual threads for players the Spurs are most likely targeting with the 28 and 33 selections. Of course we are dealing with the Spurs so that's close to impossible to tell, but here is the list I have:

Gabe Pruitt PG
Morris Almond SG
Marco Belinelli SG
Rudy Fernandez SG
Petteri Koponen PG
Wilson Chandler SF
Jared Dudley SF
Zabian Dowdell PG
Dominic McGuire SF
Taurean Green PG

Who should I add or take off the list? I want to keep it approximately the same size so that the forum isn't flooded with every draft prospect.

After I get those ten individual threads up, we can use this thread to discuss everyone else. Thanks to those who have contributed to this thread and nice work :tu

[picnroll]

Maybe Kyrylo Fesenko

[AFBlue]

Taurean Green off....maybe Derrick Byars on, maybe

[Darkwaters]

Definitely take Taurean Green off. Maybe add Kyle Visser?

What about Demetris Nichols?

[AFBlue]

Definitely take Taurean Green off. Maybe add Kyle Visser?

What about Demetris Nichols?

Good call on Visser...he should be added and Green off.

[EvenFlow]

Probably take Rudy Fernandez off since he's a longshot. Add Arron Affalo? He's a Pop kind of guy.

[picnroll]

Might as well expand it to 15. There are quite a few players bunched up in the late first/early second pack.

[AFBlue]

Afflalo at 33 does sound plausible...

[EvenFlow]

Definitely take Taurean Green off. Maybe add Kyle Visser?

What about Demetris Nichols?

I agree, Demetris Nichols should be on the list. He kinda reminds me of Sean Elliot if he maximizes his potential.

[timvp]

Might as well expand it to 15. There are quite a few players bunched up in the late first/early second pack.

Yeah, probably gotta go with 15.

Gabe Pruitt PG
Morris Almond SG
Marco Belinelli SG
Rudy Fernandez SG
Petteri Koponen PG
Wilson Chandler SF
Jared Dudley SF
Zabian Dowdell PG
Dominic McGuire SF
Taurean Green PG
Kyrylo Fesenko PF
Kyle Visser C
Arron Afflalo SG
Demetris Nichols SF
Derrick Byars SF

That's 15. Of the list, I think Visser would be a reach at 28 or 33 ... but I guess the list needs a center possibility. Afflalo to me is too short to really address a need and Nichols isn't a good enough defender to be a Spur.

I agree that Green is a little out of place but I just have a feeling ... :)

Other names that could be added are Daequan Cook, Glen Davis, Marcus Williams and maybe Josh McRoberts.

[picnroll]

A mitigating factor I think is, that if the Spurs keep all three of their picks, one and possibly two of the picks will be players they can stash overseas. My bet is eitther 28 or 33 is a foreign player. Maybe both.

[Mr. Body]

Why are we taking Taurean Green off? He seems a longshot but is not unlikely.

Isn't Aaron Gray coming in for a workout?

I'm not sure it'd be worth doing Cook, Davis, Williams, or McRoberts. Afflalo is probably okay; Nichols I have heard nothing about lately; and Byars probably is gone earlier in the 20s along with Fernandez, but a thread would be fine.

[AFBlue]

Yeah, probably gotta go with 15.

Gabe Pruitt PG
Morris Almond SG
Marco Belinelli SG
Rudy Fernandez SG
Petteri Koponen PG
Wilson Chandler SF
Jared Dudley SF
Zabian Dowdell PG
Dominic McGuire SF
Taurean Green PG
Kyrylo Fesenko PF
Kyle Visser C
Arron Afflalo SG
Demetris Nichols SF
Derrick Byars SF

That's 15. Of the list, I think Visser would be a reach at 28 or 33 ... but I guess the list needs a center possibility. Afflalo to me is too short to really address a need and Nichols isn't a good enough defender to be a Spur.

I agree that Green is a little out of place but I just have a feeling ... :)

Other names that could be added are Daequan Cook, Glen Davis, Marcus Williams and maybe Josh McRoberts.

Spurs did supposedly work out Dequan Cook and Marcus Williams would be a value pick at 33 if he's still there...not sure about the other two (McRoberts and Davis). I'm also not sure about Nichols.

[timvp]

A mitigating factor I think is, that if the Spurs keep all three of their picks, one and possibly two of the picks will be players they can stash overseas. My bet is eitther 28 or 33 is a foreign player. Maybe both.

Yeah I don't see the Spurs passing Fernandez, Belinelli, Fesenko and Koponen multiple times. If Fernandez or Belinelli are available at 28, I think they'd rank high on the Spurs' choices.

However, the Spurs are big into promises so I gotta think there's a decent to good chance they promised someone like Koponen or Fesenko a selection if they stayed in the draft.

[Mr. Body]

However, the Spurs are big into promises so I gotta think there's a decent to good chance they promised someone like Koponen or Fesenko a selection if they stayed in the draft.

Are they really big on promises, though? The Mahinmi example looms large, obviously, but that may have been a special case. Otherwise, the Spurs seem too prudent to promise a player a spot, especially in a draft as volatile as this one promises to be.

[timvp]

The Spurs' M.O. is to promise the late first round pick if the player agrees to shut down workouts for other teams.

Wilson Chandler fits what the Spurs need and he's reportedly backed out of a lot of recent workouts. Hmmm...

[timvp]

Are they really big on promises, though? The Mahinmi example looms large, obviously, but that may have been a special case. Otherwise, the Spurs seem too prudent to promise a player a spot, especially in a draft as volatile as this one promises to be.

Yeah, this might not be a good year to promise. But Mahinmi was promised a pick. The Spurs told Udrih and Parker that they'd for sure pick them if they were on the board. Same with Krstic, Dorrell Wright and Ndudi Ebi.

The Spurs usually don't go into a draft without a guy who the've told they'd for sure pick. But then again, this is a deeper than usual draft and the Spurs have to be looking more domestic than usual.

[Mr. Body]

That makes sense. I'd think they'd only promise to guys legitimately who should be selected in the top 23 or so... of course they'd only promise to one guy. For some reason I think that could be Fesenko.

[AFBlue]

The Spurs' M.O. is to promise the late first round pick if the player agrees to shut down workouts for other teams.

Wilson Chandler fits what the Spurs need and he's reportedly backed out of a lot of recent workouts. Hmmm...

Chad Ford of ESPN already reported on this. There's strong indication that he received a promise and a team that loves him is NY (sitting at #23), but he did speculate that if it wasn't the Knicks, it was definitely a team in the first round.

Chandler could be the guy...

[timvp]

For some reason I think that could be Fesenko.

Better Fesenko than Koponen. I'd rather just try to rehabilitate Beno than to draft Koponen.

[AFBlue]

The other guy that supposedly received strong interest, if not a promise, from the Spurs was Gabe Pruitt, IIRC. Can someone confirm that or am I just imagining that's the case?

[ChumpDumper]

Better Fesenko than Koponen. I'd rather just try to rehabilitate Beno than to draft Koponen.As little as I know about them, I'm not against drafting either one, as neither will be on the roster for probably two seasons.

[timvp]

Chandler could be the guy...

Chandler would be nice. Although, I can't find any true measurements for him. He's raw but if he's truly 6-foot-8, he'd fit a need on the Spurs.

[timvp]

The other guy that supposedly received strong interest, if not a promise, from the Spurs was Gabe Pruitt, IIRC. Can someone confirm that or am I just imagining that's the case?

DraftExpress supposedly heard from two sources that the Spurs promised him a pick. He's been working out for other teams so I doubt the Spurs promised him.

Pruitt at 28 or Dowdell at 33 would be pretty nice.

[AFBlue]

As little as I know about them, I'm not against drafting either one, as neither will be on the roster for probably two seasons.

You're not the only one who hasn't heard about them. Koponen was certainly the suprise of the pre-draft camps and Fesenko is relatively new on the scene as well. I agree that both sound like raw prospects that won't be able to contribute in the near future...

[AFBlue]

DraftExpress supposedly heard from two sources that the Spurs promised him a pick. He's been working out for other teams so I doubt the Spurs promised him.

Pruitt at 28 or Dowdell at 33 would be pretty nice.

Well, Ford has him going #20 to the Heat, and a couple other sites have him about 4 to 5 picks ahead of the Spurs....so my guess is that he was thankful for the gesture (promise or interest) but hoping for better. For the record, I would love to see Pruitt in a Spurs uni...

[AFBlue]

Chandler would be nice. Although, I can't find any true measurements for him. He's raw but if he's truly 6-foot-8, he'd fit a need on the Spurs.

The Chandler interest is a bit intriguing because there are two other combo forwards (Dominic McGuire and Reyshawn Terry) that have seemingly better all-around games and upside. McGuire seems like a more complete defensive player and Terry seems like a more complete offensive player. But, if it does come down to Chandler, I suppose I'll have to trust the Spurs FO.

[timvp]

As little as I know about them, I'm not against drafting either one, as neither will be on the roster for probably two seasons.

Good point. Fesenko and Koponen would be on the longterm draft 'n stash program. Even Belinelli sounds like he'd be up for a draft 'n stash.

If the Spurs keep all three picks, I think the best bet is that they'd go with two draft 'n stashers and one domestic.

At 58, perhaps someone like Marko Tomas. The Spurs looked at Tomas extensively back in 2004 and he might be worth a late gamble to see if he can improve over the next couple years.

[BradLohaus]

Regarding Nichols, I know he's worked out for the Knicks and the Nets, and has workouts sceduled with Golden State and Portland.

The Nets' GM on his workout from the Nets page on nba.com:

Breaking down the workout participants, Stefanski started with Nichols.

“Nichols is an NBA shooter, there is no doubt he can knock down shots,” said the GM.

Nichols definitely believes in his shooting ability. Asked about how his shooting went today, he said “mostly all of my shots were going in…as usual.” He’s coming into individual workouts after a very strong offensive showing at the Orlando pre-draft camp, where he converted on 9-of-13 three-pointers. While instant offense and the ability to hit deep shots is something he is especially good at, some knock his defense and his ability to fill out the other columns in the stat sheet. He said that his past season, where he led the big east in scoring, and his performance in Orlando showed what he can do and that he can play defense and put the ball on the floor.

“I think I displayed that in Orlando, I think I showed that out here. I know what I can do.”


mostly all of my shots were going in…as usual

Not sure how I feel about that, but shooters, like cornerbacks, have to have confidence and short memories.

[Darkwaters]

I'd rather have a thread for Alando Tucker instead of Aaron Afflalo. I think hes a more likely selection.

If Belinelli is drafted he stays overseas at least a year. The guy has some buyout issues and has openly said he wants to come to the NBA as an established player. Next season he'll have more opportunity to be exactly that.

I like Marko Tomas at 58 a lot. I also wouldn't mind shooting for Jonas Macilius or Sun Yue either.

[timvp]

Here is an interesting recap from less than a year ago. Two interesting names within:


Viktor Sanikidze carried Georgia into the final of the Ostchem U20 European Championship Division B with a dominant performance in his side's 74-63 semi-final defeat of Finland.

Sanikidze tallied 27 points and 14 points for Georgia, who earn promotion to Divison A in 2007.

A cat and mouse game saw Finland lead 14-15 at the end of the first quarter with 10 points from Petteri Koponen.

However Georgia lead at the half thanks to 13 and 7 rebounds from Sanikidze and 14 points from Iraki Sakvarelidze. 11 first half turnovers from Finland also added to their woes and Georgia led 41-34 at the start of the third quarter.

With 6 mins to go in the third a long three from Jari Vanttaja narrowed the Georgian lead to 48-41 but the red team replied immediately with a three of their own, however, the Finns narrowed the gap closer to 55-50 at the end of the third.

By now Koponen had moved on to 15 points and Sanikidze led all players with 20 points and 10 rebounds

The last quarter was much like the first, with both teams turning the ball over and making a number of long range jumpers. The Finns who had been one of the surprises of the tournament struggled with foul trouble losing their point guard Vuori with 5 minutes remaining.

With 90 seconds left the Georgians clung to a 69-59 lead. A pair of free throws put them up by two more with less than a minute to go . The Finns challenge was over and Georgia ran out 74-63 winners.

Georgia will take on FYROM in Sunday's final.

If Sanikidze dominated Koponen, I don't know if that shows negatively on Koponen or positively on Sanikidze. It'd be interesting to know if Sanikidze were even a draftable prospect at this point if he weren't property of the Spurs. I can't tell if he's worthless or still somewhat part of the future.

[AFBlue]

Here's a new one to throw into the fray. I was reading about the deadline yesterday and came across this nugget from Chad Ford...


Koponen is being considered by a handful of teams in the late first round. The fact that he's staying in probably means he got a team to commit.

Likewise, it appears that Barac got a promise that enticed him to stay. Several teams drafting late in the first round, such as the the Pistons and the Spurs, have been intrigued by him. Dallas also likes him and holds the 34th pick.

Barac projects to be like a Memet Okur type who has decent inside game but prefers to play on the perimeter...also has limited athleticism. I just saw it and thought it was interesting...

STANKO....the fun we'd have with that....

[picnroll]

Koponen has almost certainly gotten a guarantee from someone in the first round. He's the kind of PG that Pop has always lusted after. Pop tried to get that type of PG with Beno but failed. By all accounts Koponen is heady, very tough, very good passer, good ball handler, good change of pace, change of direction dribbler. Petty good shot but form is not great (Engelland). DraftExpress compares him to Beno but NBADraft.net compares him to Hinrich. Not that those comparisons mean jack. He fits the Spurs MO to me.

[AFBlue]

I'd rather have a thread for Alando Tucker instead of Aaron Afflalo. I think hes a more likely selection.

If Belinelli is drafted he stays overseas at least a year. The guy has some buyout issues and has openly said he wants to come to the NBA as an established player. Next season he'll have more opportunity to be exactly that.

I like Marko Tomas at 58 a lot. I also wouldn't mind shooting for Jonas Macilius or Sun Yue either.

Afflalo has reportedly worked out for the Spurs and Tucker hasn't, to my knowledge. Also, Afflalo is a decent jumpshooter and solid worker on the defensive end. He's a Raja Bell-type role player....a guy that I could definitely see taking at 33.

[timvp]

Here's a new one to throw into the fray. I was reading about the deadline yesterday and came across this nugget from Chad Ford...



Barac projects to be like a Memet Okur type who has decent inside game but prefers to play on the perimeter...also has limited athleticism. I just saw it and thought it was interesting...

STANKO....the fun we'd have with that....

Nice find on Stanko :tu

The more I look at the Spurs roster situation and the more I read about all these foreign prospects who stayed in the draft due to "promises", the more I think one of these guys is who the Spurs will pick at 28.

Add Stanko to the list with Fesenko, Koponen and Belinelli.

Knowing the Spurs, we should start looking for information on Ralfi Silva Ansaloni. He's the only other foreigner (other than Yi) who declared early.

Can anyone find anything on that guy?

[picnroll]

i.

Knowing the Spurs, we should start looking for information on Ralfi Silva Ansaloni. He's the only other foreigner (other than Yi) who declared early.

Can anyone find anything on that guy?
I googled him earlier and found ten pages all of which were saying he was staying in the draft in 20 different languages. :lol

[timvp]

Ralfi Silva Ansaloni agent is Jerome Kersey.

CIA Pop? :smokin

[AFBlue]

Here's the downlow on Fesenko....stuff like who he compares to, what type of game he has, and most importantly who's working him out. You'll notice that the Suns and Sixers, both picking at the end of the first and both looking to trade/go international with at least one of their picks, are bringing him in for a workout. So, he might not be there for the taking at 33....


Ukrainian big man Kyrylo Fesenko has decided to stay in the draft, according to his agent, Jason Levien.

Fesenko is getting quite a bit of buzz right now, and he's a sleeper for the late first round.

He measured 7-1½ in shoes at a recent workout, had a 7-foot-4 wingspan and weighed 270 pounds. He's an excellent athlete with a low-post game resembling that of Andris Biedrins.

He's already worked out for the Kings and the Bulls, and he has upcoming workouts with the Suns, Clippers, Sixers, Rockets and Hawks.

[EvenFlow]

Afflalo has reportedly worked out for the Spurs and Tucker hasn't, to my knowledge. Also, Afflalo is a decent jumpshooter and solid worker on the defensive end. He's a Raja Bell-type role player....a guy that I could definitely see taking at 33.


Tucker has worked out for the Spurs or atleast is going to. I read it from a Wisconsin native on SR that said they saw it on the news. If only he was two inches taller, he would get my vote for Bruce Bowen replacement.

[AFBlue]

Tucker has worked out for the Spurs or atleast is going to. I read it from a Wisconsin native on SR that said they saw it on the news. If only he was two inches taller, he would get my vote for Bruce Bowen replacement.

Okay, good and thanks for the update. I don't think bringing Tucker in is a bad thing at all. I look at him like a Desmond Mason type...which is not an insult.

[ChumpDumper]

Good point. Fesenko and Koponen would be on the longterm draft 'n stash program. Even Belinelli sounds like he'd be up for a draft 'n stash.

If the Spurs keep all three picks, I think the best bet is that they'd go with two draft 'n stashers and one domestic.Sounds fair. I'd go as far to say that with a deep draft, it may be possible for the Spurs to find an acceptable player to keep at #33 -- one of several swingmen since that's where we could use the youth most -- and stash #28 (Koponen or Fesenko) and #58 (whomever -- it's a #58). The #33 could possiily contribute and a two-year minimum contract wouldn't hurt our cap number in next summer.

[K-State Spur]

Afflalo has reportedly worked out for the Spurs and Tucker hasn't, to my knowledge. Also, Afflalo is a decent jumpshooter and solid worker on the defensive end. He's a Raja Bell-type role player....a guy that I could definitely see taking at 33.

Solid comparison (obviously that would be on his upside).

[Darkwaters]

Solid comparison (obviously that would be on his upside).

Hopefully Afflalo is like Raja without the blatant flopping and punk-ass antics.

[Darkwaters]

Sounds fair. I'd go as far to say that with a deep draft, it may be possible for the Spurs to find an acceptable player to keep at #33 -- one of several swingmen since that's where we could use the youth most -- and stash #28 (Koponen or Fesenko) and #58 (whomever -- it's a #58). The #33 could possiily contribute and a two-year minimum contract wouldn't hurt our cap number in next summer.

This is the type of draft where we could likely pick up a halfway decent undrafted FA. With all this depth there are going to be some guys that slip through the cracks. A guy like DJ Strawberry, who is a little too short for his position, could be brought in for dirt cheap and given a year to see if he clicks in the system. It's about as low risk a proposition as you'll find. The problem would be finding a roster spot. But depending on how many foreigners we draft and stash this season it could definitely happen.

How much do we wish we had brought in Jose Juan Barrea last season? I mean, I'm glad that we got James White instead, but Barrea would fit a need right now.

[Darkwaters]

Is Acie Law going to wear his usual "Law IV" on the back of his jersey in the pros? I always thought that was really cool for him.

We should get James White to do the same thing with his jersey, "White IV".

[Marcus Bryant]

How about the Spurs draft someone who comes from a state and not a country?

[timvp]

How about the Spurs draft someone who comes from a state and not a country?

Yeah, at least Viktor Sanikidze was from Georgia so the Spurs may be getting closer to making a domestic pick . . .

[Darkwaters]

Yeah, at least Viktor Sanikidze was from Georgia so the Spurs may be getting closer to making a domestic pick . . .

And he did go to an American Junior College for all of about 14 minutes too.

[timvp]

I could just see the Spurs going with a threesome of something like Koponen, Stanko and Tomas.

:shootme

[Darkwaters]

I could just see the Spurs going with a threesome of something like Koponen, Stanko and Tomas.

:shootme

I don't think so. Thats 3 long-term projects that might not ever pan out when they will have possible rotation guys for next year's team on the board. A draft like Koponen, Belinelli and Tomas would be much better. Belinelli will probably be ready to make the jump in about a year and Koponen is probably 2 years away. That makes more sense. But Stanko is a ways away and Tomas is kind of like shotgunning in the dark.

[Mr. Body]

The idea the team has made a promise to yet another European project in the late first round fills me with dread.

[Marcus Bryant]

Pruitt seems to be slipping, at least per nbadraft.net.

[Darkwaters]

The idea the team has made a promise to yet another European project in the late first round fills me with dread.

I tend to agree. Any Euro project not named Fernandez is probably a bad idea at this point. In a draft this deep we should be grabbing up a guy that can get a year in the system and start contributing within 12 months (or sooner) and not some random Euro that we'll have endless buyout discussions and "How is that Mahim guy doing" threads started on before its all over.

[Marcus Bryant]

The Spurs have passed on some pretty good low 1st round domestic talents for other priorities in the last 5 drafts. Given that the roster is fairly stacked heading into next season I will not be surprised to see that continue.

[Darkwaters]

Josh Howard, Trevor Ariza, David Lee

I just hope that we can turn the tide and either:

A) Draft an American and get a guy of the previously mentioned quality
B) Draft a Euro that (eventually) has half of the impact of a Tony Parker/Manu Ginobili

The problem is that since Tony and Manu we haven't done anything in the drafts. Several foreigners that haven't worked out. An unproven Frenchman. An undersized low post beast with quite possibly the worst contract ever. Karalov.... I'd just like us to get a rotation out of this draft. Be it now or in 5 years.

[timvp]

DraftExpress now has the Spurs getting Dudley and Priutt at 28 and 33. That's a pretty decent pull.

Dudley is about as unsexy of a pick as you can make but he might be the most ready to step in and play. However, I can't tell if he's more Chris Carrawell or Josh Howard.

I'm leaning toward Carrawell but I think it'd be worth seeing if he can do anything. At worst you have a high character guy who can be ready in case there's an injury. At best you have a guy who can contribute for the next decade.

[timvp]

A new twist on the ol' draft n' stash routine would be to draft Dan Nwaelele. For those who don't know, Nwaelele starred at Air Force. That means he would likely have to serve a two-year commitment a la David Robinson.

Pop is still close to the Air Force program and should have a pretty good idea if Nwaelele has any chance of being an NBA player. At 58, I think it'd be a pretty decent pick.

[Mr. Body]

I'm just glad DX no longer has us picking Aaron Gray in the first round. I was going to pop someone.

He's dropped about 14 spots, by the way.

[objective]

re: Koponen

I've been under the impression that he has zero buyout issues, as in no buyout. Maybe because some breakdown talk about him from before the deadline mentioned something along the lines of him pulling out and going to a bigger euro team to improve his stock or the like.

I could be wrong of course, but if he doesn't have any buyout issues (as opposed to guys like Splitter, Fernandez, and Bellineli), then I could understand how that might be appealing to the Spurs, as an end of first round pick really wouldn't be able to afford his own buyout on the locked in salary late firsts get.

[Bruno]

Aaron Bruce has worked out with Spurs before deciding to come back to school :
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/bk/bkc/men/4900880.html


Bruce participated in workouts with the Rockets, Spurs and Mavericks before removing his name from the draft-eligible list over the weekend.


Draftexpress is reporting that Fazekas will work out with Spurs on June 22nd.
http://draftexpress.com/workout.php?year=2007&sort=0&pid=0&tid=20

Thanks EvenFlow for the news on Alando Tucker.

Spurs' workouts :

PG :
Jared Jordan
Gabe Pruitt
Zabian Dowdell
Jamaal Tatum
Aaron Bruce (out)

SG/SF :
Aaron Afflalo
Demetris Nichols
Ron Lewis
Daequan Cook
Alando Tucker

PF/C :
Carl Landry
Kyle Visser
Nikita Shabalkin (out)
Lamont Hamilton
Aaron Gray
Nick Fazekas

Maybe :
Trey Johnson
Wilson Chandler

[mountainballer]

I'm just glad DX no longer has us picking Aaron Gray in the first round. I was going to pop someone.

He's dropped about 14 spots, by the way.

he might still end up as a Spurs pick, but the way he is free falling it would be the #58 pick. considering that a few months ago most mocks had him as a late lottery/mid first rounder, he lost quite some favour of the scouts.
however, if he is picked as a mid or late 2nd rounder, he could be a nice pick for some teams in need of a cheap 3rd string center. Wolves at 41 or Clippers at 45 will be happy to get him IMO.