The 2008 NBA Draft

[Bruno]

Spurs' 08 draft picks :

Spurs first round pick
Raptors second round pick (from the Printezis trade)
Spurs second round pick

Spurs have the 26th, 45th and 57th picks (http://www.nba.com/nba_news/draft_lottery_results_080520.html)


Player available for the 08 draft :
International players born in 1986 and college senior are automatically eligible.
College underclassmen and international players born in 87,88 or 89 can enter in the draft.

Links :

Draftexpress (http://www.draftexpress.com/index.php)
Nbadraft (http://www.nbadraft.net/)
A blog on European prospects (http://www.europeanprospects.com/)
Espn draft page (http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/draft2008/index)
Wiki on the lottery (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NBA_Draft_Lottery)
Future draft picks (http://www.realgm.com/src_future_draftpicks.php)
NCAA players stats (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/players)
Euroleague players stats (http://www.euroleague.net/competition/players)
CBA faq (http://members.cox.net/lmcoon/salarycap.htm)

[Bruno]

It's a little soon but since people start to talk about some draft projects, I started this thread to have the whole discussion in a single place.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

On nbadraft.net the Bobcats have an alternate logo. I didn't know they had one.

[Mr. Body]

Nbadraft.net has Marcus Dove at the Toronto pick. He has some attitude problems but is really big and long as a SF, 6'9", is very athletic, and a hell of a defender. I'd be very happy to get him in the second round and feel he has some untapped offensive capabilities. He decided early on to be defense-first and is great at it.

For the first round, this is an interesting year. There are very few good SF prospects this year not Nicholas Batum (out of our range). Practically none who are not just swingmen/tall SGs. Brandon Rush could be available late in the first round; the year is young and he's playing well but not setting the world on fire.

With young big men prospects already handled, we can look at shooting guards at this point, especially since no SFs will really be there. We need to replace Finley and Barry soon.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

The 3 players I want out of this draft are Goran Dragic, Marcus Dove, and Brandon Rush but I doubt we would be able to pull off these picks.

[Mr. Body]

Er, let that be, Marcus Dove WAS at the Toronto pick but has fallen. I haven't seen him play this year, but he used to fit the profile.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

Comparisons:
Best Case: Euro Smush Parker

:(

[Mr. Body]

I got to see this game live early last year at the Garden. It was a pretty lousy game, very sloppy, but that's where a good defender can shine. Marcus Dove, two dunks in 17 seconds:

youtube link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRPMbZeeCUY)

He does this dumbass 'dove' thing over his head after every play.

[traitoravery]

He does this dumbass 'dove' thing over his head after every play.

What a douche... Def not Spurs Material.

[Mr. Body]

Reviving this thread to add a new person. There has been discussion elsewhere that may someday be patched in. Here is Pat Calethes (http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Pat-Calathes-1373/) , 6 foot 10 inch guy from St. Joseph who is getting attention only from draftexpress, but is a smart, versatile player who definitely fits a long three profile. Even as a Derrick McKey type - McKey was not terribly gifted as an athlete.

[MajorMike]

Dove is the exact same player as Melvin Sanders except Dove has a bit more offense and Melvin has a bit more D. Melvin was the best defender in the B12 on a Final Four team and Dove is the best defender in the B12 on a team that won't make the NIT.

[wildbill2u]

It's a little soon but since people start to talk about some draft projects, I started this thread to have the whole discussion in a single place.
Great idea and none too soon. I hope we can avoid all the threads for individual potential draftees put up by their proponents and keep the discussion confined here--but I doubt it since Kori is so accomodating that she lets the inmates run the asylum.

I'm hoping for us to get more athletic on the wings. Unfortunately, I put in my dream specs for a SF into the Draft Express search engine--shooter, rebounder, perimeter defender, athletic--and came up with "no such animal, pardner". In fact, you don't get much until you start putting only one item, such as perimeter defender, into the search.

Either all this year's crop of NCAA players is one dimensional or DE hasn''t loaded much info into the machine about the potential draftees.

[BacktoBasics]

Pretty easy to predict this.

If you can't pronounce the name and he isn't ready to play the Spurs will draft him. I'm sure that narrows it down to a handful.

[sa_butta]

On nbadraft.net the Bobcats have an alternate logo. I didn't know they had one.That is their logo.

http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-55689164847873_1981_10590670 (http://us.st11.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-55689164847873_1981_10557705)

[Mr. Body]

Dove is the exact same player as Melvin Sanders except Dove has a bit more offense and Melvin has a bit more D. Melvin was the best defender in the B12 on a Final Four team and Dove is the best defender in the B12 on a team that won't make the NIT.

Marcus Dove destroys Melvin Sanders on defense. He is much bigger, much better. Sanders is perhaps more offensively capable.

But nice false equivalence. You should go into politics. The old OK State team was peppered with some future pros, the current team is not. The old OK state team was coached by a prospective HOF coach. The current team is coached by that prospective HOF coachhś son.

[mountainballer]

I also like to add a player, who is far under the radar, regarding draft talks
(draftexpress and nbadraft don't even have a profile)

Novica Velickovic, 1986, 6-9 PF
smart player, plays hard, very good rebounder, has some range.
(best case IMO: David Lee)
made a huge step this season. last night a 17points/13 rebounds game in the Euroleague.
maybe not strong and athletic enough for NBA play, but might be worth this late 2nd rounder and wait how he improves the next 2 years in Europe.
a bit of a bigmouth, but this usually isn't a problem in the NBA. (since Euro player are often labeled as to quiet)

http://www.euroleague.net/competition/players/showplayer?gamecode=156&pcode=JNN
http://www.adriaticbasket.com/player.php?id=607

[Kill_Bill_Pana]

I not sure if they be which draft year, but at #27 draft pick Spurs should be interest in player calls Nikola Peckovic also maybe with #58 draft pick Spurs should be interest in player calls Milos Teodosic but maybe he not draft yet he only 20 years I think. This player good potentials as Spurs point guard after Vaughn leave if Spanoulis not decide come back.

[Southwest Texas Fan]

Has anyone heard anything on Sandizke?

[mountainballer]

I not sure if they be which draft year, but at #27 draft pick Spurs should be interest in player calls Nikola Peckovic also maybe with #58 draft pick Spurs should be interest in player calls Milos Teodosic but maybe he not draft yet he only 20 years I think. This player good potentials as Spurs point guard after Vaughn leave if Spanoulis not decide come back.


jesus, I thought you are a Panthinaikos fan?
Nikola Pekovic has reached an agreement with Pana for the next 3 years (for rumored 6+ million $ net)!!!
no team will draft him in the 1st round. maybe use a 2nd rounder on him and gamble if he wants to come over in 3 years and then sign him for MLE money. (if he has improved to a premium player in Europe)

[Bruno]

The pool of Euro players looks quite bad. Aside of Batum and Gallinari, I don't think there is someone worth being a first round pick. Maybe it could change if some young players enter in the draft but, right now, I don't really see an Euro worth being Spurs first round pick.

[T Park]

but I doubt it since Kori is so accomodating that she lets the inmates run the asylum.


Seeing as her husband participates in it, I'd say its ok :rolleyes

[Bruno]

A little bump to update picks.

About 2009 picks :
- The first round pick traded to Seattle is lottery protected. ( link (http://spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=2264866) )
- The second round pick traded to Charlotte in the Ely trade is the worst of Spurs and Hornets second round pick. ( link (http://www.realgm.com/src_future_draftpicks.php) )

In 2009, Spurs will likely have no first round pick and 2 second round picks : Rockets' one and the best of Spurs' and Hornets' one.

[wildbill2u]

It's a little soon but since people start to talk about some draft projects, I started this thread to have the whole discussion in a single place.
Au contraire! With the NCAA tourneys starting, we need some guidance on who to watch.

I've been hoping someone would start one that everyone would use. I didnt do it because I'm not a draft wizzard like some of you guys. Thanks for starting it.:clap

[wildbill2u]

Great idea and none too soon. I hope we can avoid all the threads for individual potential draftees put up by their proponents and keep the discussion confined here--but I doubt it since Kori is so accomodating that she lets the inmates run the asylum.

I'm hoping for us to get more athletic on the wings. Unfortunately, I put in my dream specs for a SF into the Draft Express search engine--shooter, rebounder, perimeter defender, athletic--and came up with "no such animal, pardner". In fact, you don't get much until you start putting only one item, such as perimeter defender, into the search.

Either all this year's crop of NCAA players is one dimensional or DE hasn''t loaded much info into the machine about the potential draftees.
You need to lower your expectations about what players can do and load in only one or two. For a long SF I put in "perimeter defender" and "athletic" and it came up Terry Tyler.

I don't think he's got much of a shot. And we may not have a shot at him if we are down at--or near--our ususal place in the draft.

[tav1]

It's a little too early for me to pick my horses, but I'm wondering if Bruno could give me his take on Anton Ponkrashov. I've watched him play a couple of times and was impressed with what I saw. Could we get him in the second round? DX says he can't go right, but I still think he's worth an 2nd rd flier and assignment in Austin.

And, do you think Batum is a lottery lock?

Is Phoenix raffling off both of their draft picks this season? If so...oh scrap it. They'd never sell to the Spurs.

[ChumpDumper]

Is this draft class going to be as awesome and full of impact players as the last one?

[Bruno]

It's a little too early for me to pick my horses, but I'm wondering if Bruno could give me his take on Anton Ponkrashov. I've watched him play a couple of times and was impressed with what I saw. Could we get him in the second round? DX says he can't go right, but I still think he's worth an 2nd rd flier and assignment in Austin.

I don't like Ponkrashov.
Tall PGs like him usually failed in NBA. They can't play PG because they are to slow to defined this position and they end up as average SG/SF.
I don't think Spurs should spend their first round pick on him but with a mid to late second round pick, why not.



And, do you think Batum is a lottery lock?

He has a so-so season. He has some troubles to be a truly dominant player in French league.
I don't know NCAA players but if a lot of good NCAA underclassmen enter in the draft after march madness and if Batum isn't better and more consistent, he could slip.
Given his upside, he shouldn't slip too far.



Is Phoenix raffling off both of their draft picks this season? If so...oh scrap it. They'd never sell to the Spurs.

They only have one first round pick this year that should be around the 15th pick. I doubt they will trade a pick that high only for some cash.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

My updated wants from the draft:
Alexis Ajinca
Lester Hudson
Marcus Dove

[pad300]

Pekovic is worth a 1st, hell, statistically he's as good as Pau Gasol was in Euroleague. How many 22 year olds manage that. (also, he's currently doing better than Splitter...). However, with the contract he signed with Panathaikos, I can't see him going in the 1st.

I think our first round pick should probably be a wing, as I have expressed in other posts. There are going to be several possibilities around where we will draft (22-27). Tyler Smith, Bill Walker, Brandon Rush, Kyle Weaver are all names to look at.

As far as our 2nd round picks, if Pekovic is available at the Toronto pick take him!! However, I expect him to go high in the 2nd. We will have very little roster room for rookies - what with having Splitter, Mahinmi, and our 1st round pick on the team, we will likely need to either trade or draft and stash our 2nd round picks.

Bigs (6) - Duncan, Bonner, Oberto, Mahinmi, Splitter, +1 Veteran (no way pop is going with 3 rooks in his big rotation; I'd guess a resigned Kurt Thomas).
Wings (6) - Manu, Bowen, Udoka, 1st Round Pick, FA, Barry
PGs (3) - Parker,Vaughn, Vet FA.

Therefore, I would consider drafting a Euro with Toronto's pick, and trying to trade forward with our pick. As mentioned above, if Pekovic is there, take him. If not, I would definately consider Ponkrashov; he's shown some real promise. Goran Dragic is another possible, as is Joe Ingles.

As far as American second round picks, I would keep an eye on the following names, Pat Calathes, Shawn James, Marcus Dove. The only way I see for making a spare roster spot for another young player is to consider Barry 3ed PG. I don't expect us to do that, as Pop prefers veteran heavy rosters. I might try that to make room for Shawn James, but I don't think I would bother for Calathes or Dove.

[Mr. Body]

Tyler Smith
Kyle Weaver
Brandon Rush

as pad said above, with Courtney Lee added. It seems they have to use their pick this year, can't trade away subsequent years (2009 is gone). I'd think they have to go for a SG or SF or SG/SF.

The team is stacked with big men already, but this draft seems chunky with big men, both PFs and C prospects, everywhere.

As always, the best SF prospects will all be gone - Gallinari, Batum, Budinger, the younger guys like the Syracuse and the LSU guys. If Joe Alexander does well in the tournament he might come out. None of them are knockouts, but several are lottery picks. They should all be gone before the Spurs pick.

I'd expect Dove, Calathes, and that type to probably not be that great of players.

[T Park]

That Raptors pick is looking better and better everyday.

[hsxvvd]

nbadraft.net has Roy Hibbert (Georgetown) sliding to 19th pick, I'd love to see him slip but it's a reach. More realistically I'd love to see Tyler Smith of Tennessee, or a nice young wide body like Joey Dorsey (Memphis) or DJ White (Indiana). We need to replace Horry and Thomas, with some youthful yet experienced bigs that can contribute, but they aren't internationals so we probably haven't noticed them.

[JPB]

And, do you think Batum is a lottery lock?


Batum spent the first part of the season to play for the scouts in the audience.
He particulary wanted to showcase his skills in euroleague, but without much success. He tried to prove he could do all the things scouts were searching.

All in all, I think he put too much pressure on him instead of just playing ball.

As Bruno mentioned he still has some upset and is still young but even whithout considering the NCAA reservoire, I think his value has decrease a bit or hasn't increase anyway.

[Bruno]

It seems they have to use their pick this year, can't trade away subsequent years (2009 is gone).

Spurs can't trade their first round pick before the draft but they can trade it during the draft.
Spurs can draft a specific player for another team and immediately trade his draft rights to another team (like they did with Barbosa, Markota or Printezis). By doing that, they doesn't trade consecutive first round picks since they don't trade a first round pick but draft rights to a player.

I quite agree with pad300 analysis. Drafting a domestic SG or SF with their first round pick seems to be the most logical choice for Spurs. Overseas players or trade seems to be the most logical option for their second round picks. I also can see Spurs trying to get a young PG as 3rd string PG.

[stéphane]

Batum has dissapointed me so far this season, he hasn't improved his game or his way to play the game enough to be considered a lottery pick imo.
I've seen him going against Budinger 2years ago at the Douai tournament and Batum had clearly way more upside than Chase. But as far as I can tell Batum is soft and despite the upside he has due to his skills and athleticism he got to change the way he plays to succeed in the nba.
On the other hand, in Gallinari you know you have someone who will succeed. The boy has star written all over him.

[Bruno]

http://www.draftexpress.com/article/Roundup-Scoring-Machine-Dragicevic/

Draftexpress is reporting that Omri Casspi will put his name in the draft and that Spurs have send two scouts in Israel last week.

He is a really interesting solution for Spurs first round pick.

[yavozerb]

Bruno, have you seen this dragic kid play before? I have seen his name come up before and was just wondering if you thought he would make a decent NBA pg...Smith or Rush would be a nice 1st rd pick..

[Bruno]

Bruno, have you seen this dragic kid play before? I have seen his name come up before and was just wondering if you thought he would make a decent NBA pg.

I saw him playing with Slovenian NT last summer. He isn't the most talented player of the world but he played with a lot of energy and is a good defender.

Slovenian posters should know him way better than me and should give you a better answer about him.

[RADECK]

I also like to add a player, who is far under the radar, regarding draft talks
(draftexpress and nbadraft don't even have a profile)

Novica Velickovic, 1986, 6-9 PF
smart player, plays hard, very good rebounder, has some range.
(best case IMO: David Lee)
made a huge step this season. last night a 17points/13 rebounds game in the Euroleague.
maybe not strong and athletic enough for NBA play, but might be worth this late 2nd rounder and wait how he improves the next 2 years in Europe.
a bit of a bigmouth, but this usually isn't a problem in the NBA. (since Euro player are often labeled as to quiet)

http://www.euroleague.net/competition/players/showplayer?gamecode=156&pcode=JNN
http://www.adriaticbasket.com/player.php?id=607

Great pick, also hit cluch 3 pointer yesterday. There are quite feew players of Partizan that might play big roles in NBA teams in future. Peković is great pick, better then Veličković.

About Dragić, remember how he played last year agains TP in Spain? TP was quite nervous and Dragić did grat job defending him. He is great defender, weak shoter, but definitely someone to look at. He is Tau Ceramica(Scola, Splitter) player and if he will play next year for them(this year he played in Olimpija Ljubljana), make some progress i believe he can play on NBA level.

[Mr. Body]

Batum should still go in the lottery. If not, he'll be snapped up by 20.

[Mr. Body]

Casspi looks like a long-term prospect at the very least. It'd be a mistake to draft him before the 2nd round.

[urunobili]

nbadraft.net has Roy Hibbert (Georgetown) sliding to 19th pick, I'd love to see him slip but it's a reach. More realistically I'd love to see Tyler Smith of Tennessee, or a nice young wide body like Joey Dorsey (Memphis) or DJ White (Indiana). We need to replace Horry and Thomas, with some youthful yet experienced bigs that can contribute, but they aren't internationals so we probably haven't noticed them.
i don;t see the Spurs going for Hibbert... we al;ready have the bigs we need for a couple of seasons and plus he needs lots of development... he does have the size... but i dunno about his all around skills...

[pad300]

Spurs can't trade their first round pick before the draft but they can trade it during the draft.
Spurs can draft a specific player for another team and immediately trade his draft rights to another team (like they did with Barbosa, Markota or Printezis). By doing that, they doesn't trade consecutive first round picks since they don't trade a first round pick but draft rights to a player.

I quite agree with pad300 analysis. Drafting a domestic SG or SF with their first round pick seems to be the most logical choice for Spurs. Overseas players or trade seems to be the most logical option for their second round picks. I also can see Spurs trying to get a young PG as 3rd string PG.

Draft strategy question. Pekovic is a very good talent; that much is obvious. However, with his contract in Europe, many think he will drop to the 2nd round. Would it be worth locking him up with a late 1st round pick, thereby locking him in for X years at a low salary? (Bruno, is a 1st round pick now locked in for a max of 5 years, and a min of 2?).

Pros - His contract is locked in, and if he comes after his current contract, at 25, he would be in his prime at very cheap.

Cons - he might stay in Europe for his career, as a 1st round pick salary might be considerably less than what he could get in Europe. It might result in another Scola situation; however, we would have more leverage, as his contract terms would already be fixed...

Such a move would open a roster spot (likely at the wings), giving us a chance to look at assorted D-leaguers, cheap/overlooked players(eg. Kelenna Azuibuike ?sp?, Dahntay Jones), and the possibilities of our second round picks open up a lot.

PS. another name to add to the list of possible US secound round players - Luc Richard Mbah a Moute...

[mathbzh]

I does not totaly agree on opinions about Batum. It is true he does not dominate the French league as he should. But when he is on, he can completely dominate the game on offense and defense. He had a bunch of outstanding performance to prove he is completely unguardable at this level when he uses all his weapons.

With 12 ppg (54 %, 36 3P%) / 5rpg / 3 apg/ 1 stl / 1 bpg in 29 minutes Batum is arguably the best player in Le Mans and Le Mans leads the French league with 17W/6L.
Batum is not soft... he has already posterized a bunch of players in the French and Euro leagues. I agree he sometime passive but he isn't soft.
His best game in the french league is a 25 pts/ 9rbds /5 ast win over Nancy one of the best french team... Batum already proves he can take over in the important games.
His worst games? against HTV, Dijon, Pau , Orléans... 4 team that should not make the playoffs

IMO, Batum is having a great season... and it is scary when you realise he still have so much room fo improvment.

[Kamnik]

I saw him playing with Slovenian NT last summer. He isn't the most talented player of the world but he played with a lot of energy and is a good defender.

Slovenian posters should know him way better than me and should give you a better answer about him.

Well Draft Express has him described quite well.

I have not followed Union Olimpija much lately... (so i cant really say much about his last 6 months improvement)

Anyways, i can surely say he is a tougher player and way better defensively than per say Udrih. (worse shooter, worse court vision, Dragič is faster and more athletic)

Can finish with both hands, streaky shooter. I saw him do some airballs when completely open from 3pt range but not that bad that he could not shoot a decent %. He is good at driving where he is a crafty finisher.

He could be a GREAT defender in the NBA if he would be dedicated to work.

He demolished Tony Parker on defence in Euro. (seriously... i dont know if it was also a bad day for Parker or maybe he underestimated Dragič...)

Good size for a PG. 6-4


I think it would be worth picking him early second round or even late first round. And lets say im not being a homer... :toast


p.s.

oh... i also remembered that i wowed t him quite a few times when he wasnt afraid to go flying into the 7 footers for a rebound; fought really hard...

[Penya]

And... What about Ibaka?

[Kamnik]

Well Draft Express has him described quite well.

I have not followed Union Olimpija much lately... (so i cant really say much about his last 6 months improvement)

Anyways, i can surely say he is a tougher player and way better defensively than per say Udrih. (worse shooter, worse court vision, Dragič is faster and more athletic)

Can finish with both hands, streaky shooter. I saw him do some airballs when completely open from 3pt range but not that bad that he could not shoot a decent %. He is good at driving where he is a crafty finisher.

He could be a GREAT defender in the NBA if he would be dedicated to work.

He demolished Tony Parker on defence in Euro. (seriously... i dont know if it was also a bad day for Parker or maybe he underestimated Dragič...)

Good size for a PG. 6-4


I think it would be worth picking him early second round or even late first round. And lets say im not being a homer... :toast


p.s.

oh... i also remembered that i wowed t him quite a few times when he wasnt afraid to go flying into the 7 footers for a rebound; fought really hard...

http://www.adriaticbasket.com/player.php?id=614

his stats in the Adriatic league this year

12 ppg, 70% 2pt shooting !! 44% 3pt shooting 3 assists per game

[ClingingMars]

http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Sean-Singletary-448/
http://www.nbadraft.net/admincp/profiles/seansingletary.html
http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19071&draftyear=2008&action=upsell&appRedirect=http%3a%2f%2finsider.espn.go.com%2fnba draft%2fdraft%2ftracker%2fplayer%3fplayerId%3d1907 1%26draftyear%3d2008
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/player/profile?playerId=22208

The next Speedy Claxton?

-Mars

[Mr. Body]

I can see Batum dropping, especially with Joe Alexander coming on super strong and moving up the SF ranks. Again, though, pick 20 is kind of an arbitrary cut-off point, where you get solid playoff teams without huge needs snapping up guys who have dropped. The only reason we got a late lottery-type talent in Splitter last year was because of the one-year buyout thing.

[tav1]

If there is no one for the Spurs to pick, I'd like to see them package the pick with Matt Bonner's contract for someone who could crack the rotation.

[wildbill2u]

Casspi looks like a long-term prospect at the very least. It'd be a mistake to draft him before the 2nd round.
well, we're probably going to draft and stash our second pick anyway. Might as well take a shot at another development prospect, but I don't know if he's the guy.

[Bruno]

Nike hoops summit will be on April 12 in Portland.
HS players can' enter in this year draft but international players can do it like Koponen did last year.

rosters (http://www.primetimepdx.com/nhs/nhs_rosters.htm)

Serge Ibaka, Alexis Ajinça and Zygimantas Janavicius are names to follow.

[JPB]

Nike hoops summit will be on April 12 in Portland.
HS players can' enter in this year draft but international players can do it like Koponen did last year.

rosters (http://www.primetimepdx.com/nhs/nhs_rosters.htm)

Serge Ibaka, Alexis Ajinça and Zygimantas Janavicius are names to follow.


I'm very intrigued by Ajinça.

He first looked just like a big body to me, one or two year ago but then began to develop and show interesting things and good mobility fo a 7 footer.

Funny to know that he wants to see himself as a 4 more than a 5, ala Stoudemire or Garnett...

For the record, he was a french and european BMX champion, and also a world vice-champion !

It will be interesting to see how he'll do in the NHS.

[wildbill2u]

Nike hoops summit will be on April 12 in Portland.
HS players can' enter in this year draft but international players can do it like Koponen did last year.

rosters (http://www.primetimepdx.com/nhs/nhs_rosters.htm)

Serge Ibaka, Alexis Ajinça and Zygimantas Janavicius are names to follow.
Speaking of Kaponen, what happened to the Flying Finn? I haven't heard a word about him since last year's draft.

[mathbzh]

Funny to know that he wants to see himself as a 4 more than a 5, ala Stoudemire or Garnett...


Imagine Ajinca trying to fight with D12 and you will understand why he wants to see himself as a 4 and not a 5.

[wildbill2u]

I don't think he's coming out this year (soph), but did anyone else pick up on Damion James from Texas playing against the two behemoth Lopez twins from Stanford.

He was terrific in rebounding against these taller players and showed quickness on defense and offense as well as the ability to hit the three from the perimeter.

If he were to come out, where do you think he would go in the draft? I really think this guy could be a NBA SF.

[Mr. Body]

Damion James is probably 2nd round at this point, if drafted. Not saying he can't be a good player.

[Bruno]

A little update on Spurs' picks.
Spurs first round pick : 27th. It could end up between 23rd and 29th.
Raptors second round pick : 47th. It could end up between 46th and 48th.
Spurs second round pick : 57th. It could end up between 53rd and 59th.

Chad Ford thinks that Batum will be picked between 15th and 25th. If he is right, Spurs' pick could be quite close to him. Trading up is really difficult and costly but if Spurs could end up with Batum, it would be a huge steal.

[ChuckD]

nbadraft.net has Roy Hibbert (Georgetown) sliding to 19th pick, I'd love to see him slip but it's a reach. More realistically I'd love to see Tyler Smith of Tennessee, or a nice young wide body like Joey Dorsey (Memphis) or DJ White (Indiana). We need to replace Horry and Thomas, with some youthful yet experienced bigs that can contribute, but they aren't internationals so we probably haven't noticed them.
The latest mock has him at 23. OF course, since we jumped from #5 in the WC to #2 overnight, our draft position is dropping too. :dizzy

[Bruno]

An unknown player that could make some noise before the draft is Giorgi Shermadini. He is a 7'1" georgian center and is born in 1989.
Sometimes birth dates are false about players from this area so take it with a grain of salt.
He is now working out in California for the draft. He is said to be skilled and quite athletic. He could end up as a surprise pick.

[gmanrulz]

draftexpress has us taking hansbrough in the first round

[Mr. Body]

Batum pulls out if it has him dropping into the 20s, right?

[ClingingMars]

draftexpress has us taking hansbrough in the first round

i think he'd be a great bench player for a burst of energy, Malik Rose esque.

-Mars

[Bruno]

Batum pulls out if it has him dropping into the 20s, right?

I think he will stay in the draft even if he isn't in the lottery.

[Mr. Body]

i think he'd be a great bench player for a burst of energy, Malik Rose esque.

-Mars

Hansbrough is tougher and smarter (on the court) than Malik, but not as smart and effective as Luis Scola.

[ClingingMars]

Hansbrough is tougher and smarter (on the court) than Malik, but not as smart and effective as Luis Scola.

the key will be his post D, which is good, but not the best.

-Mars

[BIG z]

Do the spurs have a first round pick this year...

[ducks]

A little update on Spurs' picks.
Spurs first round pick : 27th. It could end up between 23rd and 29th.
Raptors second round pick : 47th. It could end up between 46th and 48th.
Spurs second round pick : 57th. It could end up between 53rd and 59th.

Chad Ford thinks that Batum will be picked between 15th and 25th. If he is right, Spurs' pick could be quite close to him. Trading up is really difficult and costly but if Spurs could end up with Batum, it would be a huge steal.
BIG z read this post

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

The draftexpress mock draft doesn't even have him going, but from what I've seen of Earl Clark during march madness we could do a lot worse than him. Love the way he took over the Tennessee game in the second half.

[timvp]

With Pop's fascination for chucking point guards, I like the idea of Stephen Curry. Dell's son can light it up. Play him next to Manu and they can handle the guard duties.

Right now I think the Spurs' offense is fine but as Duncan and Ginobili age, they'll need a fourth scorer eventually. Curry is a flawed prospect ... but he can score. I could see him tumbling into the end of the first round just because most teams won't have a position for him to play.

[coopdogg3]

I like Kyle Weaver in the 2nd round. Could be an interesting pick - can guard 3 positions, though he needs to work on his shot. But that's what Chip is for.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=19168&draftyear=2008

Draft Projection: Second round to undrafted

Positives: Slashing, athletic combo guard who has a very good feel for the game. High basketball IQ. Ultimate team player. Excellent, tenacious defender. His long arms and quickness allow him to really disrupt the passing lanes. Has improved his three point shooting tremendously this season.

Negatives: His shooting is still suspect. He doesn't have much of a mid range game and before this year he wasn't hitting threes. Doesn't seem to want to shoot the ball. Averages only around eight shots a game.

Summary: Offensively he's got a long way to go, but his basketball IQ is so high and his defense so good, more than one scout has projected him as a potential Bruce Bowen type player in the pros. He's a likely second round selection depending on how he plays in the pre-draft camps.

http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Kyle-Weaver-1253/

ESPN has him at #68, Draft Express has him going in the 2nd round - pick 7.

[mathbzh]

This weekend Batum proved one more time he is there during big games. He was the best player on the court in a duel at the top of the French league between Le Mans and ASVEL. NBA scouts (KNICKS) saw Le Mans winning the game (86-75) and Batum putting down 23 pts/6rbds/2blks in 33 minutes.

Even if Batum doesn't receive the same hype this year, I can't see him being out of the top 20 picks.

[LEN BIAS 4EVER]

I am all over Hansborough with the first rounder. He would make a great guy off the bench and I don't care about any questions about his athleticism, he can play at the next level.

I take it that Rush and CDR of Memphis will be gone by time the Spurs pick, so how about the Cal guys Hardin and Anderson ?? I like Kyle Weaver as well but don't see us taking him. I woul;d imagine we take two young Euro's in the second round and stash them for a few seasons.

If I see Joey Fuckin Dorsey's name called out by the Spurs then draft day 2008 will be my last day as a Spurs fan until he is gone.

[hsxvvd]

With Pop's fascination for chucking point guards, I like the idea of Stephen Curry. Dell's son can light it up. Play him next to Manu and they can handle the guard duties.

Right now I think the Spurs' offense is fine but as Duncan and Ginobili age, they'll need a fourth scorer eventually. Curry is a flawed prospect ... but he can score. I could see him tumbling into the end of the first round just because most teams won't have a position for him to play.


Curry's has already said he's going back to Davidson for another year. He'd make a great understudy to Manu, he is MANUesque.

[BIG z]

BIG z read this post

Did we not trade our first round pick to seattle..

[Mr. Body]

Did we not trade our first round pick to seattle..

2009

[RuffnReadyOzStyle]

Seems to be a lot of discussion about big men and PGs, but how about drafting a long wing?

[Mr. Body]

Seems to be a lot of discussion about big men and PGs, but how about drafting a long wing?

Drafting a Wing Forum.

[tav1]

With Pop's fascination for chucking point guards, I like the idea of Stephen Curry. Dell's son can light it up. Play him next to Manu and they can handle the guard duties.

Right now I think the Spurs' offense is fine but as Duncan and Ginobili age, they'll need a fourth scorer eventually. Curry is a flawed prospect ... but he can score. I could see him tumbling into the end of the first round just because most teams won't have a position for him to play.

Methinks he's too flawed. I don't think he could play defense at the pro level. But I think a 2nd round flier wouldn't be so bad. At that point, though, I'd prefer Ponkrashov. But that's my hobby horse...

[Borosai]

I like Josh Duncan (Xavier - 6'9" ~230). Although he can step out and shoot it, he seems to play more like a PF, so he probably won't fit. But if he can show some quickness on the defensive end, his size will be great against the stronger SFs like James and Anthony, and shooting PFs like Dirk.

[Dingle Barry]

We need to go all out to get Batum

[wildbill2u]

from all accounts Batum won't be available when we pick (29th i hope?). I don't think we can package anything to move up that many slots.

And even if we could, the FO hasn't shown much willingness to do that in the past.

[TheProfessor]

from all accounts Batum won't be available when we pick (29th i hope?). I don't think we can package anything to move up that many slots.

And even if we could, the FO hasn't shown much willingness to do that in the past.
Chad Ford mentioned in his chat today that he expects Batum to drop to the late first round. Though I wouldn't call him the most credible source on foreign prospects.

[tav1]

Chad Ford mentioned in his chat today that he expects Batum to drop to the late first round. Though I wouldn't call him the most credible source on foreign prospects.

International prospects the world over are on the slide. The Darko knee jerk might have relaxed if not for Andrea Bargnani, whose suckage casts a shadow over the rest of the world.

I say good for the Spurs. Maybe they can get Batum and Casspi, in that order, 1, 2. Odds are strong that one of the two will develop into a servicable wing. This is why Holt owns the Toros, right?

Perhaps this is the year to pick up another late first/early second and take a flier on a sliding player or two, such as the aforementioned or someone like Bill Walker or Brandon Rush. I know four picks would be a lot, but given the team's age and unique relationship to Austin, why not?

I wonder if Bonner could bring a pair of 2nd round picks?

[Mr. Body]

Darko and Bargs have nothing to do with this year's international draft class, which just isn't that great.

Batum will not slide all the way to the Spurs.

[Mr. Body]

I wonder if Bonner could bring a pair of 2nd round picks?

Which two picks would the Spurs give up? 2008, 2009?

[tav1]

Darko and Bargs have nothing to do with this year's international draft class, which just isn't that great.

Batum will not slide all the way to the Spurs.


Ford had Dumars on his podcast a few months back and Joe D said just the opposite--that recent international draft pick failures had given many of the GMs in the league cold feet. They'd rather wait and see on the internationals and pick 'em up later as free agents.

[Mr. Body]

Ford had Dumars on his podcast a few months back and Joe D said just the opposite--that recent international draft pick failures had given many of the GMs in the league cold feet. They'd rather wait and see on the internationals and pick 'em up later as free agents.

Pretty handy to say, since the current generation is considered tapped out.

[Bruno]

Casspi : 18 points and 10 rebounds in Euroleague quarter final.
Not bad for a 19 years old player. :smokin

If Spurs want to move up or to get another pick, their best assets are Splitter, Mahinmi or cash.
I think Spurs are quite high on Mahinmi and Splitter, so cash is Spurs best asset.
Throwing cash isn't Spurs way but Holt could be ready to do that given that Spurs payroll will be about $10M lower next year than this year.
With $3M in cash, Spurs could get another late first/early.
With $3M in cash and their pick, Spurs could move up in the early 20's.

[Kamnik]

Goran Dragič is playing great lately in Adriatic league Playoffs...

[Mr. Body]

With $3M in cash, Spurs could get another late first/early.
With $3M in cash and their pick, Spurs could move up in the early 20's.

Other teams see the Spurs' run coming to a close, but will still be unlikely to trade draft picks to them. And do you truly think the Spurs would pay $3 million for an untested rookie, even before his salary?

The Spurs supposedly have tried to trade up every year in the draft and never have. Teams are usually never likely to trade down late in the draft, even for several places. They have their short lists of players and stick by those instead. A drop of five places, from 23 to 28, can mean their pet guy is gone. If the Spurs couldn't trade up using Scola last year, they're not moving up this year.

Most likely they have their 2 or 3 guys they like and if those guys drop off the board, they'll draft for someone else and trade out of the first round. Last year they liked Splitter and Daequan Cook; if both were gone (one was), they would have dumped the pick.

[Bruno]

Other teams see the Spurs' run coming to a close, but will still be unlikely to trade draft picks to them. And do you truly think the Spurs would pay $3 million for an untested rookie, even before his salary?

Spurs cap situation is quite different next year. If they like a player, i can see them spending $3M to get his rights.
It depends on the situation of the other team. A rebuilding team or an ECF team, has no serious reason to avoid a trade with Spurs. And it's not like the team trade the first overall pick to Spurs.



The Spurs supposedly have tried to trade up every year in the draft and never have. Teams are usually never likely to trade down late in the draft, even for several places.


Agree on that.
Trading up almost never happen.
I'm just saying that if Spurs want to trade up their best assets to do it is cash.

[Mr. Body]

Agree on that.
Trading up almost never happen.
I'm just saying that if Spurs want to trade up their best assets to do it is cash.

I'd be stunned to see the Spurs spend money to buy up or buy a draft pick, especially since they'd need that money to sell Bonner's contract to someone. I could see them make a push if Batum falls, however.

I believe Minnesota has the 1st and 3rd picks in the second round. I wonder if a 2 for 2 pick swap could be done there, as someone mentioned - our first and one second for those two. I see the Spurs wanting to get away from guaranteed salary to get themselves off the hook.

[Mr. Body]

Draftexpress reports that a rule change has come into effect: underclassmen can be sponsored to travel to NBA sites for workouts. Before, they were on the hook for expenses, which made it hard for a lot of athletes to get themselves seen. DX suggests this will lead to more underclassmen testing the waters, with the benefit of getting seen by teams who want to see them. The impact will be on seniors, who cannot test the water and face increased crowding for spots and attention.

[tav1]

Casspi : 18 points and 10 rebounds in Euroleague quarter final.
Not bad for a 19 years old player. :smokin

If Spurs want to move up or to get another pick, their best assets are Splitter, Mahinmi or cash.
I think Spurs are quite high on Mahinmi and Splitter, so cash is Spurs best asset.
Throwing cash isn't Spurs way but Holt could be ready to do that given that Spurs payroll will be about $10M lower next year than this year.
With $3M in cash, Spurs could get another late first/early.
With $3M in cash and their pick, Spurs could move up in the early 20's.


I think the Suns have posted their pick on ebay. I wonder if the Blazers have multiple picks this year--if so, they might be willing to sell. I like your thinking here Bruno.

[Mr. Body]

I think the Suns have posted their pick on ebay. I wonder if the Blazers have multiple picks this year--if so, they might be willing to sell. I like your thinking here Bruno.

Phoenix gets Atlanta's first round pick this year from the Joe Johnson trade. It will be late lottery, but most assuredly they'll use it. They most assuredly would not let the Spurs have it, if they wanted to let it go.

Portland has multiple 2nd round picks, but their first rounder is about #13, which they would not sell outright. They might sell 2nd rounders or package them for something else.

So... try again.

[tav1]

Phoenix gets Atlanta's first round pick this year from the Joe Johnson trade. It will be late lottery, but most assuredly they'll use it. They most assuredly would not let the Spurs have it, if they wanted to let it go.

Portland has multiple 2nd round picks, but their first rounder is about #13, which they would not sell outright. They might sell 2nd rounders or package them for something else.

So... try again.


Point taken. But the Atlanta pick will not be a lottery pick. Atlanta is in the playoffs. They'll pick 14 or 15.

[Mr. Body]

Point taken. But the Atlanta pick will not be a lottery pick. Atlanta is in the playoffs. They'll pick 14 or 15.

I need to check the standings. For some reason both nbadraft and DX list it as a lottery pick. Sucks to be Phoenix, actually. The one year Atlanta is any good, they got their pick.

I'd love for Holt to open his checkbook and buy a ticket to get Batum, but I doubt it happens on either end.

[tav1]

I need to check the standings. For some reason both nbadraft and DX list it as a lottery pick. Sucks to be Phoenix, actually. The one year Atlanta is any good, they got their pick.

I'd love for Holt to open his checkbook and buy a ticket to get Batum, but I doubt it happens on either end.

Atlanta being out of the lottery and teams like Golden State and Portland being in is the best argument for reformatting the playoffs. If it were simply the best 16 teams then this wouldn't be a problem. The current system will actually help the Western conference become better. I'll laugh for a month if a team like Portland winds up with a top 5 pick. And then I'll cry when I start to project their line up going forward.

[wildbill2u]

I suggested Caspi as a second round pick before. He's very young and raw, but has some talent and is projected as a long SF I think so he wouldn't be competing against Splitter or Ian in the organization.

Not that competition within the org based on talent is a bad thing.

[JPB]

This weekend Batum proved one more time he is there during big games. He was the best player on the court in a duel at the top of the French league between Le Mans and ASVEL. NBA scouts (KNICKS) saw Le Mans winning the game (86-75) and Batum putting down 23 pts/6rbds/2blks in 33 minutes.

Even if Batum doesn't receive the same hype this year, I can't see him being out of the top 20 picks.

We tend to forget he's only 19 and that's it's quite normal if he has some ups and downs.

I was a bit disappointed by Nico during the season but I still think he has the tools to be a solid player and a still ot of upsides.

The best thing for him would be to be drafted by a team who could afford to let him stay in Europe 1, 2 more years to develop.

[JPB]

Batum pulls out if it has him dropping into the 20s, right?

I don't think it's as much important for foreign players to be drafted in a high position as it is for US kids.

[Bruno]

I suggested Caspi as a second round pick before.

I doubt Casspi will be available at Raptors second round pick.
IMO, he will only stay in the draft if he gets a first round promise.

What will hurt the most Batum draft stock is that he hasn't played that well in Euroleague. NBA teams will look at first at what he ahs done in the league with the higher level. Dragic will be in the same case.

[Mr. Body]

Calling it now. Brandon Rush won't be a Spur.

[Mr. Body]

I'd have to think Mario Chalmers is on the Spurs' radar. It's more likely now he'll come out, a la Taurean Green last year. Given his excellence as a PG defender, he could be a great back-up.

[ChuckD]

Calling it now. Brandon Rush won't be a Spur.
Agreed. He'll also be a room temperature NBA player.

[Demo Dick Marcinko]

I know it's a little premature to be talking about the draft, but after watching Memphis and Derrick Rose in particular I was so impressed. In some draft boards he is listed ahead of Michael Beasley. This is a draft that has a lot of quality point guards including possibly DJ Augustin. I'm not sure if we have a 1st round pick this year, but what about Ricky Rubio in the 2nd. I love watching that guy play. To me he may not be as physically gifted as Rose and Eric Gordon and have as pure a shot as Augustine but he just seems to have eyes on the back of his head and he's as good a slasher and creator as I've see. I'd like to see this young kid be the heir apparant to TP. He's 18 going on 19 now, so he can enter the draft. Thoughts?


Looks like the long SF is going to have to come thru FA, because the best candidates Chris Douglas Roberts, Danilo Gallinari (sp), Nicolas Bateem, Donte Greene, Anthony Randolph will be long gone. Brandon Rush may be there in the 2nd round.

[BIG z]

I would love for the spurs to draft an athletic small forward in the first round, we already have two big bodies in Ian and Splitter and we need a replacement for Bowen...

[wildbill2u]

There is already a draft thread started. I suggest that we use the old thread which already has a lot of info and opinions. Somebody ought to contact Kori and ask her to pin it since we'll be going there a lot.

[Demo Dick Marcinko]

There is already a draft thread started. I suggest that we use the old thread which already has a lot of info and opinions. Somebody ought to contact Kori and ask her to pin it since we'll be going there a lot.


My bad, did not see it, but not a bad idea since we will be approaching that time of the year.

[mountainballer]

I know it's a little premature to be talking about the draft, but after watching Memphis and Derrick Rose in particular I was so impressed. In some draft boards he is listed ahead of Michael Beasley. This is a draft that has a lot of quality point guards including possibly DJ Augustin. I'm not sure if we have a 1st round pick this year, but what about Ricky Rubio in the 2nd. I love watching that guy play. To me he may not be as physically gifted as Rose and Eric Gordon and have as pure a shot as Augustine but he just seems to have eyes on the back of his head and he's as good a slasher and creator as I've see. I'd like to see this young kid be the heir apparant to TP. He's 18 going on 19 now, so he can enter the draft. Thoughts?


Looks like the long SF is going to have to come thru FA, because the best candidates Chris Douglas Roberts, Danilo Gallinari (sp), Nicolas Bateem, Donte Greene, Anthony Randolph will be long gone. Brandon Rush may be there in the 2nd round.

Ricky Rubio? is this ment to be a late April fools joke or do you live on an other planet? aside the fact that he's only 17 and can't enter the draft before 2009, he is projected as a top 3 pick 2009, if not no.1.
so good luck when hoping he will he there at our 2nd rounder. what if he's gone. pick DeRozan at 58?

[Demo Dick Marcinko]

Ricky Rubio? is this ment to be a late April fools joke or do you live on an other planet? aside the fact that he's only 17 and can't enter the draft before 2009, he is projected as a top 3 pick 2009, if not no.1.
so good luck when hoping he will he there at our 2nd rounder. what if he's gone. pick DeRozan at 58?

sorry I misread his birthday 10/21/90. Don't be an asswipe, honest mistake. Rubio will be a top 3 pick in 2009, no doubt. If DJ Augustin decides to come out, or Demar DeRozan, or Rubio (whom I like a lot) any of those 3 could be the top pick. Blake Griffin is probably gone, otherwise he would be in the mix for top 3.

[Demo Dick Marcinko]

Kori I didn't see the other 2008 Draft thread started, feel free to merge.

still curious what everyones thoughts are on the SF target; Chris Douglas Roberts, Danilo Gallinari (sp), Nicolas Bateem, Donte Greene, Anthony Randolph or Brandon Rush. Love Damion James too. He is a athletic beast who can shoot from the outside.

[Mr. Body]

With Earl Clark declaring from Louisville -- without an agent, sticking around possibly if he's better than late first round -- it might push a SF prospect down to the Spurs. In all likelihood, however, like every other year, they will all be gone by the time the Spurs pick, as they've played themselves into a high seed once again and will draft late. Brandon Rush is looking more like he's gone by 20, the way he's playing. Tyler Smith might still be around, as will 2nd round-type prospects like Courtney Lee.

[Mr. Body]

There is already a draft thread started. I suggest that we use the old thread which already has a lot of info and opinions. Somebody ought to contact Kori and ask her to pin it since we'll be going there a lot.

Somebody ought to be you? People have been using this thread for a while and no one misses the other.

[Demo Dick Marcinko]

With Earl Clark declaring from Louisville -- without an agent, sticking around possibly if he's better than late first round -- it might push a SF prospect down to the Spurs. In all likelihood, however, like every other year, they will all be gone by the time the Spurs pick, as they've played themselves into a high seed once again and will draft late. Brandon Rush is looking more like he's gone by 20, the way he's playing. Tyler Smith might still be around, as will 2nd round-type prospects like Courtney Lee.


Agreed, will be slim pickings by the time the Spurs are up, Tyler Smith is not the answer, good defender, tenacious D but shoots 25% from 3 pt range and a very Spurs like 73% from the line. Courtney Lee is a bit on the smallish 6'5" range, short arms; good on the offensive end at a mid major but could be a defensive liability.

If all the good tall SF are gone, I say damage control, take Roy Hibbert and Ron Artest in FA (just like Phoenix,Boston = window closing). Pop, Tim and the Spurs culture and organization will make a model citizen out of him, no doubt. Artest is our best opportunity for that difference making SF who is unrestricted and who has yet to taste a championship and may be willing to play for less. Restructure a contract here or there and we can still get James Posey who is also unrestricted. I think it's illegal in San Antonio to get younger. I don't know the laws change so often.

[wildbill2u]

Somebody ought to be you? People have been using this thread for a while and no one misses the other.
Looks like the two threads have been merged. I just thought someone with a lot of stroke with Kori should ask her it pin it so it stays on the first page.

Sometimes it gets backed up onto the 2nd or 3rd page of threads.

[tav1]

It's difficult to piece the draft and FA pieces into the puzzle at the same time. As I look at possible draft picks and potential free agent acquisitions the complicating factor is the restricted status of so many of the guys the Spurs might have an interest in and the projected available minutes for newcomers, whether young or old.

Next year's team will probably have 18-22 minutes per game available at SG and 15-20 at back up point (assuming Vaughn moves to the end of the bench). They need athleticism at the wing and a reliable 4th scorer, but I don't see minutes available at the wing next year. Where would they come from?

I go round and round, but I'd like to see the Spurs split the MLE and draft two or three guys that *can* play for the Toros next season. Forget moving up. Forget trying to find a guy in the draft to replace Finley. Neither is going to happen.

I've posted this elsewhere, but one way to preserve some of the MLE in order to outbid for a restricted free agent is to use their Beno trade exception to fill another need. Three players I've identified as exception possibilities are Balkman, Crittenton (or Lowry) and Rodriguez. If Memphis gets one of the fist two picks in the draft, they're almost forced to select Rose. This makes Crittenton or Lowry available. They could move either one to save money and give Rose minutes to satiate the Memphis fan base. The Spurs would have a shot at these players.

How much is Calderon going to cost Toronto? Is he too expensive for them to re-up and still resign Delfino? Will Portland match all offers for James Jones? Will the Celts be forced to let Tony Allen walk to retain Sam Cassal? Is Tony Allen worth 3.5 or 4 million? Is Vujacic a darkhorse option? Is he affordable? Is Roger Mason a legit 2nd point? Is there any truth to the Ramunas Siskaukas rumors?

These are the sort of questions I ask when thinking about the draft. The Spurs are drafting for next year's Toros team and the 2009 or 2010 Spurs team.

[Bruno]

Draftexpress has summed up who will enter or not on the draft :
http://www.draftexpress.com/article/2008-NBA-Draft-Early-Entry-List-/

I have the feeling that the trend this year is to enter in the draft. The most underclassmen enter in this year draft the better it is for Spurs given that Spurs haven't a first round pick next year.

Spurs pick is the 27th one right now but it could be as high as 23rd if Spurs lost a couple of games. Even if some players will leave the draft, it's possible that some high profile players are available for Spurs' first round pick.

[Bruno]

Realgm has published the protection on the Spurs pick send to Seattle :
http://www.realgm.com/src_future_draftpicks.php

So the pick send is :
top 15 protected in 2009
top 10 protected in 2010
top 5 protected in 2011
top 3 protected in 2012
unprotected in 2013

Espn is saying that Barry has a player option for next year contract :
http://sports.espn.go.com/nba/news/story?page=2008freeagents
If he decides not to pick it (to retire or to go elsewhere), Spurs will have an extra roster spot.

[mountainballer]

according to nbadraft.net Budinger and Speights have entered and DX just reported, that Donte Greene enters and will hire an agent. a bit surprising. his stock has fallen dramatically, people would expect he will just test waters and go back to school, if he can't be sure to be picked top 10.
(and Syracuse has a super talented core, if they would finally start to play like a team, they could make big noise in the NCAA next year).
however, each of this three would push down Brandon Rush for another spot, another spot closer to us.

[Mr. Body]

It sounds like Greene is expecting to hire an agent and is in the draft for good. He's likely a late lottery pick at worst.

[Mr. Body]

Realgm has published the protection on the Spurs pick send to Seattle :
http://www.realgm.com/src_future_draftpicks.php

So the pick send is :
top 15 protected in 2009
top 10 protected in 2010
top 5 protected in 2011
top 3 protected in 2012
unprotected in 2013

Next year I fear we'll be asking ourselves why we had to waste that pick.

[TheProfessor]

Next year I fear we'll be asking ourselves why we had to waste that pick.
Considering how weak that class will be? Not likely. Or do you think the Spurs will drop significantly in the standings and draft from a better position?

[Mr. Body]

Considering how weak that class will be? Not likely. Or do you think the Spurs will drop significantly in the standings and draft from a better position?

I haven't even looked at the 2009 board, to be honest. If it's lousy that's one thing. More I was projecting backwards wondering if Thomas will have any great impact enough to have given up a first rounder for him.

[Dingle Barry]

DraftExpress now has the Spurs picking Robin Lopez from the Cardinal. What the fuck? I would spontaneously combust if we make that pick.

[Mr. Body]

DraftExpress now has the Spurs picking Robin Lopez from the Cardinal. What the fuck? I would spontaneously combust if we make that pick.

I don't think they're picking for need yet. I can't see the Spurs taking a big guy.

[tav1]

Yet another long three suggestion (if I don't post it, someone will):

http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Pat-Calathes-1373/

Pat freakin' Calathes, late second round stud or D-League fodder--talk amongst yourselves.

[Bruno]

I've just watched the second half of the Nike Hoop Summit.
Ibaka didn't show a lot of things. Ajinça was a little better but he has still a long way to go.
We will see what will happen but I doubt one of them will be in the draft this year.

[tp2021]

bump.
with all the spurfan ledge-jumping, it would be good to use that energy on proposing solutions for the future and discussing them instead.

[Mr. Body]

bump.
with all the spurfan ledge-jumping, it would be good to use that energy on proposing solutions for the future and discussing them instead.

There are no solutions in the draft.

[tp2021]

Ok. Thanks for the input.

[ducks]

There are no solutions in the draft.
heard portland will be looking to trade their 2 picks

[BIG z]

We really need a small forward to replace bowen...

[Mr. Body]

heard portland will be looking to trade their 2 picks

Um... okay.

[Bruno]

A little update on Spurs picks :

First, when two or more teams are tied, there is no tiebreaker. There is a random drawing few days after the end of the regular season. The order is reversed for the second round, that is to say if two teams are tied for the 16th and 17th pick, one will get the 16th and 47th pick, the other the 17th and 46th pick.

Raptors second round pick could still be the 46th or 47th pick. The most likely scenario is the 47th pick.
Spurs first round pick could still be between 23rd and 28th.
Spurs second round pick could still be between 53rd and 58th.

[urunobili]

We really need a small forward to replace bowen...
i thought Ime was here for that

[wildbill2u]

i thought Ime was here for that
Short term solution to a continuing problem. Ime is also over 30.

[AFBlue]

Just went to the DX site and caught up with who is reportedly putting their name into the mix on the international side....

Given that the Spurs are almost guaranteed to go international with at least one of their picks, I couldn't help but get excited when I saw the list of names.

Obviously if the Spurs could snag Nicolas Batum at the end of the first round it would be a steal. He has considerable talent, plays a position of need, and is young enough to improve his game.

The other three that I'm most intrigued with (Ajinca, Tomic, Ibaka) are all F/C. I know the Spurs are stacked at that position and have a couple in the pipeline, but all three of these guys have a skill-set that is not duplicated by the current roster bigs....namely their perimeter-oriented game.

I think with the depth of big men likely to be in this draft, the Spurs should be able to find value in a pick for down the road...such as Ajinca or Tomic.

Of course that's not a complete list, but those were some of the ones that jumped out at me and had a pretty clear indication they were in it to stay.

[Mr. Body]

PHAT -- sadly, it doesn't seem the Spurs will get any of those players. Batum will be gone by their first rounder. All three of those big guys will be gone by the middle-end of the second round. Maybe Ibaka drops, but don't think so.

[Bruno]

Spurs will have the 26/27th, 47th and 56/57th picks.
A coin flip will happen in the next days (I guess it will be on Monday) to decide if Spurs will have the 26th and 57th picks or the 27th and 56th picks.

Spurs first round pick will be quite late. Odds that a highly regarded prospect drop that far are quite unlikely. :depressed

[tlongII]

The Blazers will win the draft lottery again and select Derrick Rose.

[JPB]

Spurs will have the 26/27th, 47th and 56/57th picks.
A coin flip will happen in the next days (I guess it will be on Monday) to decide if Spurs will have the 26th and 57th picks or the 27th and 56th picks.

Spurs first round pick will be quite late. Odds that a highly regarded prospect drop that far are quite unlikely. :depressed

Maybe but who would have thought Tiago would still be available when Spurs turn came last year ?

[Mr. Body]

I see a Mario Chalmers in our future.

[Bruno]

Spurs won the tiebreaker.

Spurs will have the 26th, 47th and 57th picks.

[AFBlue]

What about a foreign-born player that went to college in America?

Luc Richard Mbah a Moute declared for the draft today, adding to the list of potential SFs.

[yavozerb]

Chalmers at 26 and Mbah a Moute at 47 would make my day....

[loveforthegame]

What's up with nbadraft.net? Anyone else having trouble accessing it?

[remingtonbo2001]

Spurs nabbing Chalmers @ 26 would be great. I just don't see it happening.

[wildbill2u]

PHAT -- sadly, it doesn't seem the Spurs will get any of those players. Batum will be gone by their first rounder. All three of those big guys will be gone by the middle-end of the second round. Maybe Ibaka drops, but don't think so.

DX has Ibaka one pick below ours. He's 18, still pretty raw but with tremendous physical ability and he's overseas.

Knowing the FO penchant for picking foreigners in the first round so they can avoid 1st round money, I think we could see them take him with our 1st round pick--while passing on hyped American players like Brandon Rush and Tyler Hansbrough.

[kyleo]

DX has Ibaka one pick below ours. He's 18, still pretty raw but with tremendous physical ability and he's overseas.

Knowing the FO penchant for picking foreigners in the first round so they can avoid 1st round money, I think we could see them take him with our 1st round pick--while passing on hyped American players like Brandon Rush and Tyler Hansbrough.
They were looking to move up for Daequan Cook last year, or at the very least had him on the radar. Don't think it's so much that they won't spend first round money, as they are just extremely selective about first round domestic prospects.

[wildbill2u]

They were looking to move up for Daequan Cook last year, or at the very least had him on the radar. Don't think it's so much that they won't spend first round money, as they are just extremely selective about first round domestic prospects.

I agree about being very selective. They know that most of the late 1st rounders will fail to make the league at all although the native born players get protected status and money.

However, if they found a really deep draft had a player who was a lock to make the team and fit with the team's needs and philosophy, they would take him. It just ain't likely to happen at 26.

[Bruno]

The deadline for the early entry is on Sunday. We will know soon who has entered in the draft and who hasn't. This year, it will be damn important to see who will stay and who will pull out. On DX mock draft, 27 or the 28 first picks are underclassmen. :wow
The withdrawal deadline is on June 16th, the draft on June 26th.

Spurs situation should be quite complicate. This draft is bigmen oriented and Spurs needs perimeter players.
Most coveted swingmen like Rush, Alexander, Douglas-Roberts or Batum should be gone at 26. Only lesser prospect like Lee, Weaver or Giddens will be available.
Will Spurs settle to draft one of these players at 26 ?
If they don't do that, they will have to be creative by doing a trade or by finding a hidden gem overseas.

The draft is still in a long time but I have a hard time to figure what Spurs could do with their pick. I'm not really optimistic about Spurs being able to do something interesting.

[tp2021]

Bruno...
You gotta Believe!
I am very excited about this draft...even if the Spurs don't do anything "interesting." Big changes may be on the horizon, and this team that is once again contending for a championship is going to do their best to get even better this offseason. I am utterly thrilled with the thought of how dominant the spurs can become.

[wildbill2u]

The deadline for the early entry is on Sunday. We will know soon who has entered in the draft and who hasn't. This year, it will be damn important to see who will stay and who will pull out. On DX mock draft, 27 or the 28 first picks are underclassmen. :wow
The withdrawal deadline is on June 16th, the draft on June 26th.

Spurs situation should be quite complicate. This draft is bigmen oriented and Spurs needs perimeter players.
Most coveted swingmen like Rush, Alexander, Douglas-Roberts or Batum should be gone at 26. Only lesser prospect like Lee, Weaver or Giddens will be available.
Will Spurs settle to draft one of these players at 26 ?
If they don't do that, they will have to be creative by doing a trade or by finding a hidden gem overseas.

The draft is still in a long time but I have a hard time to figure what Spurs could do with their pick. I'm not really optimistic about Spurs being able to do something interesting.

I agree with you. DX's mock draft has us picking some swing men like Rush, Calathes, and Gary Forbes, but Rush may be too small and over-hyped and the other two are not locks by any means. Calathes is interesting because he's so smart and long.

I'm wishing for a SF that is at least 6'8" with some perimeter skills and there ain't many out there at any pick within our reach.

Lee and Weaver are too short in my opinion for our need at SF. Giddens is too short and has off court issues that probably eliminate him from the Spurs board.

[TheProfessor]

I agree with you. DX's mock draft has us picking some swing men like Rush, Calathes, and Gary Forbes, but Rush may be too small and over-hyped and the other two are not locks by any means. Calathes is interesting because he's so smart and long.

I'm wishing for a SF that is at least 6'8" with some perimeter skills and there ain't many out there at any pick within our reach.

Lee and Weaver are too short in my opinion for our need at SF. Giddens is too short and has off court issues that probably eliminate him from the Spurs board.
My idea for the Spurs' second round: draft Calathes and James Gist, if he's still available with the latter pick, two very different SF prospects. Gist is transitioning to the perimeter, but could have a great deal of defensive potential considering his ridiculous athleticism and hard work. Throw them both out for Summer League, invite them to camp, and cut the one that's not working out. If neither is working out, look at guys overseas like Terence Morris, who is suddenly flourishing. There's not a "long SF" impact player available, but there are project prospects to consider.

I don't think Weaver's an SF prospect, but perhaps a lockdown combo-guard who needs someone to work on his jumpshot (paging Chip). The Spurs pursued Roger Mason; maybe Weaver could be a similar, more offensively challenged player.

And I wouldn't take Giddens off the board just yet. He could have a lot to offer if he's turned himself around.

[pad300]

A guy I would strongly consider is Bill Walker... Most drafts project him into the 2nd round. I think he has the physical potential to be another Ron Artest, but with less crazy and more jumpshot...
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Bill-Walker-552/

He's tremendous athlete with huge strength for his size.


Walker’s quickness and explosiveness were also on display, particularly in the first half. He was able to beat defenders to the rim both from the perimeter as well as the post, where he likes to go to a baseline spin move and muscle his way to the basket. Of particular note from this game was Walker’s ability to hang in the air and finish shots with contact. While his general explosiveness has gradually returned to him since his second ACL tear, his body control and hang time have stayed consistently impressive. The most impressive example of this came in the first half of the USC game when Walker was able to beat his defender along the baseline, take off from the left side of the paint, float to the opposite side, and lay in a soft reverse. These are the types of explosive and finesse plays that will attract NBA scouts.

The strong showing continued from Walker in the Wildcat’s second round match up with Wisconsin, where the Cincinnati native was able to go for 18 points on 7-11 shooting. We got to see more of Walker’s play around the basket in this one, where he showed his ability to pin down his defender and score with his back to the basket. At about 230 pounds, Walker is very strong for a player at this level and rarely has trouble sealing off defenders for position on the block. Once he has the ball, his combination of strength, quickness and leaping ability make him a very tough opponent to slow down. He does however need to improve his touch around the hoop.

He's developing a jump shot (which Artest never really had):



The 22-point performance really gave us an opportunity to see the full offensive repertoire that Walker brings to the table. He started right away by knocking down a long jumper from beyond the arc in the game’s opening minute. Walker’s 3-4 shooting performance from deep was somewhat uncharacteristic, as he shot just over 30% from this range during the season and was very inconsistent with his three point shooting. Walker also looked more comfortable shooting off the dribble than he had since the last time we reviewed him. A couple of times in the first half he was able to pull up against Trojan defenders and with seemingly little effort knock mid-range jumpers. This is an area of Walker’s game that is still being developed, and he doesn’t go to it very often, preferring to either catch and shoot or take the ball straight to the rim.

And he's already got a strong slashing game, which is something we lack from our reserves (ie. beyond Manu and Tony)

We also got to see some more of Walker attacking the basket from the perimeter. He has a fantastic make up for a slasher: quick, explosive, able to take contact and possessing great body control.

Finally, the best sign of all, he's willing to put the effort in on D

While his strong defensive play may have not shown up statistically in his two tournament games (no blocks or steals), Walker continued to be a solid presence on the opposite end of the floor. As has been his style all season long, Walker hounded opponents when they controlled the basketball, a few times able to force turnovers thanks to his tenacity.

There are negatives, he needs to work on his handle

The major factor holding Walker back at this point continues to be his ball handling skills. Though he was able to keep his turnover numbers down, it was clear to see that he needs to continue to work on this area of his game. His dribble is very loose, and as has been mentioned on this site previously, his crossover dribble is not very effective as he brings the ball very far away from his body as a method of faking out his defender. Walker also got into trouble a few times when he became overly aggressive, taking off in the lane while out of control and picking up offensive fouls.
and his perimeter shooting.

As has been previously mentioned in write ups on Walker, his somewhat awkward shooting form deters him from being a more consistent outside shooter. He releases the ball out in front of him rather than higher over his head, as well as tending to push the ball more than he allows it to roll off his finger tips.

I think the single biggest issue is his knees - he's had 2 ACL tears so far. I would want a thorough medical exam, but he looks like the real deal so far to me.

BTW, some people might say his attitude is a problem; I think SJax worked just fine. His intensity might be a real pick-up some games...

[pad300]

The other item I might consider would be a trade down with either the Timberwolves or (more likely) the Trailblazers or the Sonics. Our first for their 2 highest seconds. I would expect the trailblazers or the sonics to be the more likely options. Portland has a huge number of possible prospects that will need roster space, particularly once you count draft picks (they have 4 this draft, 13 (lottery),34,35,53). Similarly 6 with the Sonics (2 (lottery), 23, 32, 43, 50, 57).

A draft where we went 4 times in the second, and got say Walker, Weaver, (Dragic or Ponkrashov or even, if we are lucky, Pekovic), and traded our 4th pick forward, like we did last year with TO... would be a very good draft in my estimation.

[TheProfessor]

The other item I might consider would be a trade down with either the Timberwolves or (more likely) the Trailblazers or the Sonics. Our first for their 2 highest seconds. I would expect the trailblazers or the sonics to be the more likely options. Portland has a huge number of possible prospects that will need roster space, particularly once you count draft picks (they have 4 this draft, 13 (lottery),34,35,53). Similarly 6 with the Sonics (2 (lottery), 23, 32, 43, 50, 57).

A draft where we went 4 times in the second, and got say Walker, Weaver, (Dragic or Ponkrashov or even, if we are lucky, Pekovic), and traded our 4th pick forward, like we did last year with TO... would be a very good draft in my estimation.
Walker won't stay in the draft if there's a chance he goes in the second round. At least that's my guess. I'm still not convinced he has the proper Spurs' mentality, he plays largely for himself at this juncture.

Portland has indicated a willingness to trade off picks, but not just for higher picks. They're going to want some quality pieces to surround their young core with, and I'm not sure we can give them that. Sonics and T-Wolves seem more likely if there's a player they especially like that drops to our spot.

[Crow]

I don't know how many teams will actively consider making a deal with a team wanting to trade up in 1st round but after the 4th pick I think a lot of teams "should" be willing to consider it this year.

[yavozerb]

Keith Brumbaugh , anybody heard of this kid...Supposedly was a top prospect out of high school and then lost his scholarship for getting into trouble. Averaged 33 pts this last year in community college and is projected in the 2nd round. He is 6'9 at the SF'SG position.
http://www.nbadraft.net/admincp/profiles/keithbrumbaugh.html

[Mr. Body]

The other item I might consider would be a trade down with either the Timberwolves or (more likely) the Trailblazers or the Sonics. Our first for their 2 highest seconds. I would expect the trailblazers or the sonics to be the more likely options. Portland has a huge number of possible prospects that will need roster space, particularly once you count draft picks (they have 4 this draft, 13 (lottery),34,35,53). Similarly 6 with the Sonics (2 (lottery), 23, 32, 43, 50, 57).

A draft where we went 4 times in the second, and got say Walker, Weaver, (Dragic or Ponkrashov or even, if we are lucky, Pekovic), and traded our 4th pick forward, like we did last year with TO... would be a very good draft in my estimation.

Trading backwards into the second round is a likely scenario, but given Mahinmi and Splitter on the squad, and likely a brand-new back-up point guard (whether a rookie or not), I can't see them bringing in yet another two rookies. I'm not even sure they'll want to bring in a swingman or guard rookie of any kind.

[pad300]

Trading backwards into the second round is a likely scenario, but given Mahinmi and Splitter on the squad, and likely a brand-new back-up point guard (whether a rookie or not), I can't see them bringing in yet another two rookies. I'm not even sure they'll want to bring in a swingman or guard rookie of any kind.
I know - next year we will have a minimum of 2 (effectively) rookies on board - Mahinmi and Splitter. I am unsure what Pop would feel about more rookies vs. veterans, but the transition will have to happen sooner or later. With the draft I proposed, I would expect to see something like this.

Bigs - Duncan, Oberto, Bonner, Thomas (resigned using Bird Rights), Mahinmi, Splitter (with Mahinmi and Splitter competing for 5th big vs. D league spot...)
Wings - Manu, Bowen, Udoka, Barry, Vet signed with MLE, Walker (again Walker potentially in the D-League)
PG's - Parker, Vaughn, Weaver (as 3d pg, again likely spending some time in the D-league as development)

The Euro drafted in the Raptors Spot (Ponkrashov/Dragi/Pekovic) would stay in Europe for at least another year. Our 4th second round pick would be traded forward again, like we did with the Printezis pick last year (to get this years Raptors 2nd).

This roster is very Rookie heavy for us (usually only 1...), however, they are spread over all the positions, so we would have enough veterans to carry on, even if the rookie at that position busts.

[tlongII]

I'm hoping we luck out in the lottery and get Derek Rose. If so, we will practically give you all of our other picks.

[K-State Spur]

A guy I would strongly consider is Bill Walker... Most drafts project him into the 2nd round. I think he has the physical potential to be another Ron Artest, but with less crazy and more jumpshot...
http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Bill-Walker-552/

He's tremendous athlete with huge strength for his size.



He's developing a jump shot (which Artest never really had):



And he's already got a strong slashing game, which is something we lack from our reserves (ie. beyond Manu and Tony)


Finally, the best sign of all, he's willing to put the effort in on D


There are negatives, he needs to work on his handle

and his perimeter shooting.


I think the single biggest issue is his knees - he's had 2 ACL tears so far. I would want a thorough medical exam, but he looks like the real deal so far to me.

BTW, some people might say his attitude is a problem; I think SJax worked just fine. His intensity might be a real pick-up some games...

Walker's knees got better as the year went on, I think he'll be fine barring injury.

He's got lottery level athletic ability, but he doesn't have the want-to to play defense at the level of Artest.

His jumper is a little scary as well. Almost of all of his damage came on dunks and 3s (where he has more of a set-shot).

He'd be a good project, but likely won't be ready to contribute mentally or physically to a championship level team until Duncan is ready to hang them up.

One note: I don't know why some 'analysts' continue to question his handle. He's fine attacking with the ball. He's not going to remind anybody of AI, but he's well above Brandon Rush as well.

I'm hoping and expecting that he comes back to school.

[mathbzh]

We are not really looking for another long term prospect big man, but since his performance during the nike hoop summit, Ajinca his having a very good run in the french league.
His last 3 games (3 win for HTV and a playoff spot ensured):

12 pts / 3 rbd / 1 ast / 3 blk in 18 minutes
17 pts / 7 rbd / 3 ast / 0 blk in 19 minutes
15 pts / 8 rbd / 1 ast / 1 blk in 25 minutes

For the 3 games he shoots 16/22 FG (2/2 3pt) and 10/12 FT.

His stats for the season:
5 ppg (53 FG%) / 4rpg / 1 apg / 1 bpg / 1 to / 2PF in just 11 minutes
Per minute he has the 3rd best rating of the french league.

[Bruno]

Nando De Colo has declared for the draft.

[yavozerb]

Nando De colo: http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Nando-De-Colo-5087/

[JUUOT]

Nando De Colo has declared for the draft.

He has spurs written all over him!!!

the last thread is started a while ago was about him
http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=83668

he looks like the type of back-up PG the spurs would need. He stepped up after i posted the first thread. I kept an eye on him and even though i did not see him the things i read confirmed my first gut feeling.

[ForeignFan]

Nando De Colo has declared for the draft.

Right, but in today's L'Equipe, he says he is not sure whether he actually will make the move or not. Seems more as "let's see what it gives".

L'Equipe also says that Nicolas Batum confirmed he wanted to play in the NBA.

[TDMVPDPOY]

Hey Najera is testing FA, should we give this veteran dude a look? he can guard all 5 positions, problems is his a dinosaur....

[Bruno]

Right, but in today's L'Equipe, he says he is not sure whether he actually will make the move or not. Seems more as "let's see what it gives".

L'Equipe also says that Nicolas Batum confirmed he wanted to play in the NBA.

Yes, I've read this article.
De Colo is testing the waters.
He has entered in the draft to know what NBA scouts/teams said to him. If he likes what he hears, he will stay in the draft. If he doesn't have a good feedback, he will withdraw from this year draft.
Ajinca and Beaubois are also testing the waters.

Playing testing the waters usually stay in the draft when they think they will be drafted in the first round where you get a guaranteed salary.
If Beaubois, De Colo or Ajinca stays in the draft, it will likely means that a team has made him a promise to pick him in the first round.
Spurs likes international players and have a late first round pick. If they like one of them (or a player like Casspi), I can see them making a promise to pick him in the first round. They did that in 2005 with Mahinmi.

The draft withdraw deadline is on June 16th. Looking at what international players is still in will be very interesting.

Batum will stay for sure in the draft. Only a disaster like a major injury could change that

[TheProfessor]

Spurs likes international players and have a late first round pick. If they like one of them (or a player like Casspi), I can see them making a promise to pick him in the first round. They did that in 2005 with Mahinmi.
That's what I was thinking, and Casspi and de Colo both fill a need for this team in the future. With more underclassmen returning to school this year and thus diluting the quality of the Spurs' pick, it would be wise to show patience with foreign prospects, as they have done previously.

[wildbill2u]

Looked at the DX mock draft today and their changes put me into a funk. None of the players left on the board on our first pick, second pick, or third pick look like good choices that realistically would help us. Too many centers, Pfs and undersized swing men and pgs. Here's their chart by postions and ranking.

http://www.draftexpress.com/article/Big-Board-of-Top-115-NBA-Draft-Prospects,-by-Position,-w-Analysis/



And some players like Hansbrough are off the chart completely. Is he not going into the draft?

[RoundTableVoice]

Package All Three Picks And Try To Get A Pick In The Teens ...13-19.... Then Package That Pick And Udoka.. For A 6-10 Pick...

Get Younger For Next Season !!!

[RoundTableVoice]

Splinter Must Be A Spur Next Season

[TheProfessor]

Looked at the DX mock draft today and their changes put me into a funk. None of the players left on the board on our first pick, second pick, or third pick look like good choices that realistically would help us. Too many centers, Pfs and undersized swing men and pgs. Here's their chart by postions and ranking.

http://www.draftexpress.com/article/Big-Board-of-Top-115-NBA-Draft-Prospects,-by-Position,-w-Analysis/



And some players like Hansbrough are off the chart completely. Is he not going into the draft?
Hansbrough is returning to UNC.

Things will look even more scarce at the 26th slot when some of these underclassmen return to school before the final deadline. But since when have mock drafts mattered to the Spurs, anyway? There could be a Mahinmi lying in wait, or a promise given to someone like Casspi/de Colo, who are expected to drop to the second round.

[anakha]

It's looking more and more like another draft-and-stash year for the Spurs.

[gmanrulz]

ya hansbrough is going back to unc

[SKINNYPIMP210]

http://www.wkusports.com/upload/5FFE2425.jpg


Courtney LEE.

He is a 6'6 SG and is long enough to guard the 2 or 3. He is extremely athletic and is a natural scorer. He is the smoothest player I have ever watched, he makes everything look pretty and easy. He would be such a good fit here, He is great at defense and can score at will, but know's his place and will not take bad shots.

Do you have any video of this kid? At 6'6" he's a good sized gaurd.

[wildbill2u]

Oh well, with nothing to look forward to in the draft, we can hope that Splitter and Ian will be worth all the attention and speculation about their first season with the club. I know Ian spent a few days on the roster, but he really will be a rookie next year if they bring him up from the Toros.

[Bartleby]

There could be a Mahinmi lying in wait, or a promise given to someone like Casspi/de Colo, who are expected to drop to the second round.

The description of Ibaka on draftexpress makes him seem like a Mahinmi clone:

http://www.draftexpress.com/profile/Serge-Ibaka-1302/

I doubt the Spurs go that direction, though, unless they have reservations about whether or not Ian and/or Tiago will pan out.

Casspi is intriguing but it sounds like he has real attitude issues and may turn out to be a head case.

de Colo looks like a Barry type of player and I wouldn't be surprised to see the Spurs draft/stash him if he is still on the board.

[Darkwaters]

Courtney Lee looks very interesting. Based purely on the scouting reports from Draftexpress he seems to be just what I think we need. But can he go from the Sun Belt to the NBA?

[Darkwaters]

Well he almost beat Tennesse and UCLA by himself, and yeah he can make the transition, hes everything we need in a young player

If thats the case then the tryouts will probably put him out of reach of the Spurs then. Hes already just barely within reach. Remember Rodney Stuckey last year. A player like that can shoot up the boards. And athleticism is always in high demand, something Lee seems to have plenty of.

[Mr. Body]

One thing Lee is not is an athlete. He's fine in NBA terms, but he's by no means an exceptional one, not at a younger Finley level. Very average. What he is good at is a midrange shooting game, and a number of other things. He should hover around the end of the round or top of the second. Unless he gets a lot of press I'd expect the Spurs could take him if they wanted. He certainly seems a good prospect.

[Bruno]

Is Lee a better prospect than Byars ?

[hsxvvd]

Would we actually want to draft a rookie who would join us next year? We have Splitter and Ian joining already, unless we have quite a few retirements, I don't think we have the roster spots.

I'm sure somebody here knows more about our future plans than me, but what is the situation with the Old Brigade. Who's retiring?

[TheProfessor]

Is Lee a better prospect than Byars ?
I would say so. His performance in the LeBron James Skills Academy had scouts salivating a year ago, working against James himself. Even though Lee was expected to carry Western Kentucky, he could settle nicely into a smaller role off the bench as an energy/instant offense kind of player. A good complimentary player for a late first/early second round pick. And he could move up from there with workouts, a la Jared Dudley.

[Pistons < Spurs]

Lee is who I'm desperately hoping my Pistons get in the draft.

[TheProfessor]

Would we actually want to draft a rookie who would join us next year? We have Splitter and Ian joining already, unless we have quite a few retirements, I don't think we have the roster spots.

I'm sure somebody here knows more about our future plans than me, but what is the situation with the Old Brigade. Who's retiring?
Expiring contracts: Kurt Thomas ($8,091,187), Robert Horry ($3,630,000), Michael Finley ($3,103,000), Damon Stoudamire ($609,795), Derrmarr Johnson ($42,872).

Speculation on my part, but I don't see Horry, Finley, or Stoudamire coming back. Thomas could re-sign, but there will be competition for his services. ESPN has Barry with a player option. As it pertains to rookies, you're right, it's likely the Spurs will draft and stash, and I think the target will end up being Omri Casspi, even with his attitude issues.

[Mr. Body]

Don't you think Finley's coming back? He still has a role on the squad and is, after all, a starter. But it may depend on if they can get another SG they like. Barry can't start and is otherwise suspect for injuries, and Manu should come off the bench.

Even with Mahinmi and Splitter, I can see the Spurs taking a rookie swingman, SG, or full SF.

[TheProfessor]

Don't you think Finley's coming back? He still has a role on the squad and is, after all, a starter. But it may depend on if they can get another SG they like. Barry can't start and is otherwise suspect for injuries, and Manu should come off the bench.

Even with Mahinmi and Splitter, I can see the Spurs taking a rookie swingman, SG, or full SF.
I get the feeling it's Finley's last year in a Spurs' uniform, but you're right, he could take the min and stick around to mentor whoever is brought in as a replacement. I'm also not sure I see the Spurs taking a domestic product from a smaller school like Lee. That was one thing Marcus Williams had going for him, the Arizona "pedigree." If anyone could attract their attention in that range at a need position domestically, I think it's Mario Chalmers; that's assuming a player of Rush's or Alexander's quality doesn't drop.

[Mr. Body]

I agree with Chalmers over Lee, but with Collison returning to UCLA Chalmers is likely nabbed earlier in the round. I hadn't stated before but agree with your general idea. I cannot see the Spurs giving a guaranteed salary to an untested domestic product.

[pad300]

I agree with Chalmers over Lee, but with Collison returning to UCLA Chalmers is likely nabbed earlier in the round. I hadn't stated before but agree with your general idea. I cannot see the Spurs giving a guaranteed salary to an untested domestic product.

I hope they aren't going to get fiddly about "Guaranteed Salary". With the latest CBA, Rookie contracts are perhaps the biggest roster bargain possible... Rookie contracts are now only 2 years guaranteed, but up to 5 years of the team options.

[Mr. Body]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRiuEoSFwLk&feature=related

Video means nothing, but hey. Mostly stills, this includes the Courtney Lee dunk posted earlier. One thing that stands out is the elevation he gets on his jump shot.

[TheProfessor]

Video of some overseas non-bigs the Spurs could be looking at:

Goran Dragic (http://youtube.com/watch?v=5bUiaEzhBwY)

Omri Casspi (http://youtube.com/watch?v=_NAmdN60G7g)

Joe Ingles (http://youtube.com/watch?v=2s7M0rdK6Nc)

[McMofo]

The Spurs are looking for a replacement for Tim and that is not too far off.
They are taking bigs and hoping that one of them pans out and the Ibaka kid is very raw, young and athletic with lots of potential. I think they take this kid if he's available and let him develop in the Euros a few years and then learn from Tim.
This is what I think they are hoping for in Mahimni and Splitter as well. Hopefully Ian and Tiago develop and stick with the team. They kinda remind me of Dave and Tim at a lesser skill level, Ian athletic and quick like Dave and Tiago more of a slower post player like Tim.

[Mr. Body]

I'd be surprised to see them take a big man.

Splitter is pretty fast, anyway.

[ThomasGranger]

Chalmers is the only domestic pick that wouldn't surprise me. Of course, accurately predicting whom the Spurs will actually draft is the ultimate shot in the dark, so who knows

[Bruno]

The early entry list is available :
http://www.nba.com/news/earlyentry_draft_080501.html

To me, the surprise name in this list is Victor Claver. He is a very interesting player and I can see Spurs taking him at 26th if eh stays in the draft.

[K-State Spur]

Somebody refresh my memory:

It's been discussed that the Spurs had their eye on Dequean Cook last year.

Did we try to trade up for him, or were we just hoping that he would fall to us?

If trade, were there any rumors as to what was being offered?

[Mr. Body]

I think they tried to move up, probably using Scola and/or future picks.

[hsxvvd]

Stay away from Joe Ingles.

He plays for my local team here in Australia, and he will NEVER play NBA. He is drastically overrated here. He has little to no defense against drastically inferior opposition, be it slower, shorter and now even less experienced. I would struggle to find an NBA comparison, because no player with his abilities has ever made the NBA, and I don't mean that in a good way.

His shot selection is terrible, he's selfish, he is often tagged with "athletic" but this is against NBL opposition, and would be seen as average at best against NCAA competition. Unlike most Euro's he can't shoot. Other than an occasional hot streak that generally occurs in junk time against even lower quality opposition.

Hia development was really damaged by an early coaching change in his career. Mark Price coached him for his first 5 games and would probably have been a great influence on his game, unfortunately Price was sacked and replaced by Shane Heal (A former Spur), but his selfish no defense approach seems to have rubbed off on young Ingles and two seasons of being on a losing team have only made him more appathetic and selfish.

Stay clear. Don't waste the pick.

[TheProfessor]

Stay away from Joe Ingles.

He plays for my local team here in Australia, and he will NEVER play NBA. He is drastically overrated here. He has little to no defense against drastically inferior opposition, be it slower, shorter and now even less experienced. I would struggle to find an NBA comparison, because no player with his abilities has ever made the NBA, and I don't mean that in a good way.

His shot selection is terrible, he's selfish, he is often tagged with "athletic" but this is against NBL opposition, and would be seen as average at best against NCAA competition. Unlike most Euro's he can't shoot. Other than an occasional hot streak that generally occurs in junk time against even lower quality opposition.

Hia development was really damaged by an early coaching change in his career. Mark Price coached him for his first 5 games and would probably have been a great influence on his game, unfortunately Price was sacked and replaced by Shane Heal (A former Spur), but his selfish no defense approach seems to have rubbed off on young Ingles and two seasons of being on a losing team have only made him more appathetic and selfish.

Stay clear. Don't waste the pick.
Thanks for the info, greatly appreciated. It's been difficult to find information on him, although I had heard similar things about his athleticism and streaky shooting. Teams will get a good look at him in pre-draft camps, as he's been working out in Chicago recently.

I remember reading that Heal brought him to San Antonio in 2007, so he may have already worked out for the Spurs on the down-low.

[Penya]

Hi.

Victor Claver is in the early entry list. He's a good player now, but I'm sure he will be a GREAT player [second round].
Casspi fantastic too:toast
http://www.draftexpress.com/article/2008-Official-NBA-Draft-Early-Entry-List-/ [International]

[ThomasGranger]

Claver sounds really promising. Looks like he has the height of a power forward but the skill set of a small forward. Is he fast enough to play SF in the NBA?

[ClingingMars]

Watch out for Sean Singletary. His scoring and passing ability is one of the best in the draft.

- Mars

[Mr. Body]

Claver looks great. DX puts him near the lottery in 2009. I'd expect him to pull out if he looks to be a second rounder, but maybe a certain Texas team will give him a promise...

[Penya]

Claver sounds really promising. Looks like he has the height of a power forward but the skill set of a small forward. Is he fast enough to play SF in the NBA?

He's really fast.
His characteristics are similar to those of Pau Gasol with his age (long arms, very thin). He is a bit smaller and his exterior shot is better. His power of jump is incredible (he won the dunk contest of our league [video below]) and in Valencia they say that he is hard-worker.
It can be a good chance for Spurs if he appears, since if the year comes he can be Top-20 (only if his season at Spain is good).

Highlights: http://youtube.com/watch?v=_qjTsiIqAE0 Over Hervelle, in PO
http://youtube.com/watch?v=Olyw_-8Pbdc Dunk contest.

[Excuse me if there are mistakes, my English is not perfect:()

[AFBlue]

Hi.

Victor Claver is in the early entry list. He's a good player now, but I'm sure he will be a GREAT player [second round].
Casspi fantastic too:toast
http://www.draftexpress.com/article/2008-Official-NBA-Draft-Early-Entry-List-/ [International]

I would love it if the Spurs drafted Claver as a "down the road" pick. He's got the size and skill to be a good combo forward.

Having said that, I'm not sure that he keeps his name in the draft if he's not getting a sniff in the first round. Next year's draft looks pretty weak and with a solid year he could cement himself as a first-rounder.

Still, it's a good thought.

[K-State Spur]

Watch out for Sean Singletary. His scoring and passing ability is one of the best in the draft.

- Mars

there's a UVA fan.

he's also undersized, not a great defender, and shoots a terrible percentage from the floor to get his points.

he's got grit though.

[objective]

Maybe I've not seen enough of him to say this with full confidence, but drafting Claver in the first and leaving him in the first would be outstanding.

[Mr. Body]

Maybe I've not seen enough of him to say this with full confidence, but drafting Claver in the first and leaving him in the first would be outstanding.

He looks like a good Sanikidze.

[yavozerb]

Found this on spurstalk:

Buzz

Theodoros Papaloukas has apparently not yet given up on the possibility of playing in the NBA this summer, and has even hired a new American agent to help him with that cause. He was reportedly extremely close to signing with the Milwaukee Bucks last year, but Mo Williams’ large contract didn’t leave enough money on the table for him to justify the decision. Papaloukas will be looking for a deal in the 3-year, 20 million dollar range this summer. Considering his age, the way he played this weekend and in the season as a whole, that looks like an extremely long shot. A number of teams are hot on the trail of Ramunas Siskauskas reportedly, including the San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets. That’s what the word here amongst European basketball insiders is at least.

On the coaching front, we’re about to see a great deal of musical chairs go on amongst Euroleague coaches. Ettore Messina has signed a two year contract to stay in CSKA Moscow reportedly, preferring the stability of the #1 organization in European basketball than the mess that Barcelona is apparently becoming. Sergio Scariolo is apparently the frontrunner for Barcelona now, but Pini Gershon and Simone Pianigiani are also being mentioned. After blowing a very winnable game in the Euroleague semifinals against CSKA, finishing in fourth place eventually, and also losing the Copa del Rey to Joventut, Neven Spahija will surely be on the outs from Tau Vitoria if he doesn’t win the ACB championship. Rumors all season had Dusko Ivanovic returning to take the job there, but recently it appears that Svetislav Pesic might be the frontrunner. In Maccabi Tel Aviv, Zvika Sherf will be staying another season for sure unless something incredible happens in the Israeli League playoffs. Don’t be surprised to see David Blatt’s name come up in the next few weeks for some of the open NBA head coaching jobs. We heard some rumblings about that here in Madrid, and none of the NBA executives we spoke with sounded shocked to hear that he’s quietly being mentioned as a candidate. It seems like Avery Johnson will be taking his sweet time to decide on his next destination. Don’t expect him to sign on to coach anywhere all that soon. If Omri Casspi decides to stay in the draft, that likely means two things. One, he has found a promise in the first round, and two, that is likely coming from the San Antonio Spurs. They’ve been out to see him in Tel Aviv far more than any other NBA team, and reportedly really like the way he plays. He would stay in Europe for at least a season or two, though.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

The Spurs stuff...

A number of teams are hot on the trail of Ramunas Siskauskas reportedly, including the San Antonio Spurs...

If Omri Casspi decides to stay in the draft, that likely means two things. One, he has found a promise in the first round, and two, that is likely coming from the San Antonio Spurs. They’ve been out to see him in Tel Aviv far more than any other NBA team, and reportedly really like the way he plays. He would stay in Europe for at least a season or two, though.
I'd approve of both moves. :tu

[tp2021]

bump

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

I really like the attempts they are making at Casspi and Siskauskas.
With the current SF rotation being Bowen and Udoka, Siskauskas can play combo guard in case the likely event of Finley and/or Barry retires, and then later on when Bowen is near retirement, we call up Casspi. I'm liking this plan.

[TDMVPDPOY]

The Spurs stuff...

I'd approve of both moves. :tu

just great, what we dont need next is other scouts looking at what we are looking.

[tp2021]

I just like bumping this thread.
I don't want an important thread such as this to get lost under playoff doomsday, smack talk, and celebration threads.

[wildbill2u]

Claver looks great. DX puts him near the lottery in 2009. I'd expect him to pull out if he looks to be a second rounder, but maybe a certain Texas team will give him a promise...

How would you rate Casspi, Claver, and Siskaus...Sikaucus...oh fuck it, that guy.

[tp2021]

bumpity bump bump

[Bruno]

An analysis of Euro Early-entrants:
http://www.europeanprospects.com/1988-born/forward-1988-born/nicolas-batum/european-early-entrants-for-the-2008-nba-draft/#more-129

Giorgi Shermadini's agent is saying that his player has a first round promise.
Shermadini is a 7'1", 240 lbs center. He is 19 years old (if they haven't cheated on his birth date) and put monster stats in the weak Georgian league this year. He is currently in LA working out for the draft.

Now the question is : if his agent hasn't lied, what team has made him a first round promise?

Spurs at 26th? It could make some sense, Spurs like drafting foreigners and they should know him quite well if they have follow Sanikidze this year because both were playing in the same league. However, I don't see at all spurs drafting another bigmen.
If it's a team with a higher pick than Spurs it could help Spurs to grab the player they like at 26th.
To me, the most likely team to have a promise is Detroit at 29th.

[Streakyshooter08]

There were some rumors that the Spurs are interested in drafting Omri Casspi. He is a long 3 but at the age of 19 he would be a long shot and would not help next season.

[wildbill2u]

There were some rumors that the Spurs are interested in drafting Omri Casspi. He is a long 3 but at the age of 19 he would be a long shot and would not help next season.

I think they'll take him. Spurs usually take a foreign player at this low draft slot because they can keep him stashed and don't have to pay first round money.

As far as next season goes, with two new players, Splitter and Ian, having a good shot at making the team, Pop and RC aren't going to draft anyone in the first round who would put three rookies on the team. Not unless a real stud fell that far and who expects that to happen.

[ss1986v2]

I think they'll take him. Spurs usually take a foreign player at this low draft slot because they can keep him stashed and don't have to pay first round money.
usually i agree with this line of thinking, but it just doesnt seem to make sense this offseason. we wont be anywhere near the tax line this offseason (should be like 10 mil below it). and the starting salary for a rookie in our spot is almost exactly 1 mil. its like picking up a player on the minimum. i cant see why the spurs wouldnt pay that much when they are nowhere near the tax line.

[gaKNOW!blee]

Cdr!

[TheProfessor]

The 2008 Reebok Eurocamp in Treviso has finalized their roster, and Victor Claver is not on there. Why declare if he's not going to raise his current, or, if he drops out, future draft stock? For what it's worth, Casspi is also not on there, so maybe they'll focus on private workouts.

[Ocotillo]

Anyone have any idea if Sankidze will be playing for Austin next year or will he play in Europe again?

[tav1]

Theoretical question: could a player such a Sankidze or Shermadini sign with the Austin Toros even if their rights were owned by the Spurs. If so, would their owned rights prevent teams other than the Spurs from being able to call them up? I assume money would preclude such scenarios from playing out, but I am curious if this is possible.

[mystargtr34]

I think we should get Luc Richard Mbah a Moute with our second round draft pick if hes still there... this guy looks like a Bruce Bowen clone in terms of size length and lateral quickness.

[tav1]

An analysis of Euro Early-entrants:
http://www.europeanprospects.com/1988-born/forward-1988-born/nicolas-batum/european-early-entrants-for-the-2008-nba-draft/#more-129

Giorgi Shermadini's agent is saying that his player has a first round promise.
Shermadini is a 7'1", 240 lbs center. He is 19 years old (if they haven't cheated on his birth date) and put monster stats in the weak Georgian league this year. He is currently in LA working out for the draft.

Now the question is : if his agent hasn't lied, what team has made him a first round promise?

Spurs at 26th? It could make some sense, Spurs like drafting foreigners and they should know him quite well if they have follow Sanikidze this year because both were playing in the same league. However, I don't see at all spurs drafting another bigmen.
If it's a team with a higher pick than Spurs it could help Spurs to grab the player they like at 26th.
To me, the most likely team to have a promise is Detroit at 29th.


Bruno, unless the Spurs are more serious than we suspect about using Austin as a breeding house for NBA talent. In other words, maybe they are drafting best talent/prospect regardless of the position with an eye toward grooming him in Austin. Or maybe it's a little of both. Roster space availability will still force the Spurs to draft and stash.

[T Park]

Anyone have any idea if Sankidze will be playing for Austin next year or will he play in Europe again?

He should.

Hell he should've been with em this year.

[wildbill2u]

1. I didn't see Casspi on the RealGM mock draft. Has he withdrawn from the draft?

2. Do we know of any other players who have withdrawn?

[Mr. Body]

1. I didn't see Casspi on the RealGM mock draft. Has he withdrawn from the draft?

2. Do we know of any other players who have withdrawn?

RealGm's mock has been pretty bad. Don't know if that's generally the case. Some outlets may expect Casspi to pull out of the draft, like Victor Claver will, since neither is likely to be picked in the first round at this point.

[pad300]

He should.

Hell he should've been with em this year.

Agreed, the only thing that I can think of is either it's a visa thing, or a money thing. A visa shouldn't be a problem - he was a good enough prospect to get into the NBA draft. I am not sure about the money. Sanikidze can't be getting paid that much more than the D-league pays, in the Georgian National league, Can He? Bruno, your probably our most knowlegeable international poster, do you have any estimate of the salaries paid in small european leagues like that? Is the d-league (~40K US per year IIRC) uncompetitive?

[kyleo]

RealGm's mock has been pretty bad. Don't know if that's generally the case. Some outlets may expect Casspi to pull out of the draft, like Victor Claver will, since neither is likely to be picked in the first round at this point.
RealGM is awful.

If either Casspi, Claver, or de Colo stay in the draft, I'd say it's a safe bet they've got a first-round promise. And Casspi's agent has said he will for sure be in the draft, for what it's worth. Not like an agent's word is worth anything.

[Bruno]

Agreed, the only thing that I can think of is either it's a visa thing, or a money thing. A visa shouldn't be a problem - he was a good enough prospect to get into the NBA draft. I am not sure about the money. Sanikidze can't be getting paid that much more than the D-league pays, in the Georgian National league, Can He? Bruno, your probably our most knowlegeable international poster, do you have any estimate of the salaries paid in small european leagues like that? Is the d-league (~40K US per year IIRC) uncompetitive?

AFAIK, players, whose nba rights are owned by a team, can't play in D-League.
Unless the NBA changes its rules, Sanikidze can only play with Toros if he has signed a contract with Spurs.
Baring Sanikdize being fucking great in summer league, I don't see at all Spurs spending almost $500K and one roster spot on him.


And Sanikdize didn't choose to play in Georgia for financial reasons or visa troubles. He should have played in Germany but blew his knee during workouts. You can read an interview he made in February if you want more details :
http://www.spurstalk.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2273988&postcount=170

[mathbzh]

First playoff game of the season for Batum.

In a blowout win over Cholet (82-62) the young SF from Le Mans filled the statsheet: 11 pts (4/8 FG, 1/1 3 FT)/7 rbds / 9ast / 2 stl / 0 PF / 2TO in 24 minutes.

[SenorSpur]

I think we should get Luc Richard Mbah a Moute with our second round draft pick if hes still there... this guy looks like a Bruce Bowen clone in terms of size length and lateral quickness.

Here's his bio from ESPN.com. He's got some skills, but sounds more of a project player.

http://insider.espn.go.com/nbadraft/draft/tracker/player?playerId=18978&draftyear=2008

Luc Richard Mbah a Moute Draft Bio

Draft Projection: Late first to early second

Similarities:
Luc Richard Mbah a Moute can bring down the house with his athleticism.
(Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images)


Ron Artest.

Notes: Mbah a Moute has declared for the 2008 NBA draft, but hasn't hired an agent, preserving his college eligibility.

Is a prince in Cameroon.

Positives: Super long, athletic forward who does a little of everything. He crashes the glass, is a lock-down defender and has an emerging offensive game. Quickness and athleticism make him a great slasher and finisher. Great motor on both ends of the floor.

Negatives: Still learning the game. Not a great shooter. His form is OK, but he really doesn't have long range on his jumper. No real offensive moves in the post to speak of. Is mistake prone and streaky, but most scouts attribute that to his relative lack of experience.

Summary: His play during the NCAA tournament as a freshman made him a top prospect. He has the energy and athleticism that every coach loves. But his disappointing play through his sophomore and junior season hurt his stock. A strong NCAA tournament this season has scouts interested again, but right now he projects as a late first to second-round pick.

[Mr. Body]

One knock on Batum was rebounding. Looks not to be a problem anymore. Damn, I wish dumbass Ford didn't put out his mock; I was well expecting Batum gone in the lottery or by 20 at latest. He still will be.

Mbah a Moute will not be drafted. He's not good enough, but suppose if he actually stays in the draft he can be signed as a free agent.

[wildbill2u]

Here's his bio from ESPN.com. He's got some skills, but sounds more of a project player.

Summary: His play during the NCAA tournament as a freshman made him a top prospect. He has the energy and athleticism that every coach loves. But his disappointing play through his sophomore and junior season hurt his stock. A strong NCAA tournament this season has scouts interested again, but right now he projects as a late first to second-round pick.


MBAH! Humbug!

[Sway]

I really like Batum and Alexander to fill the "long 3" role, but I think they will be gone before the Spurs pick. Casspi, Calathes, & Claver may still be available, and should be worth a look.

[mathbzh]

Le Mans makes it to the semis in playoff with a 74-65 win over Cholet.
Not a great game for Batum.

Batum stats: 13 pts (5/11 FG, 2/3 3Pt, 1/1 FT), 2 rbds, 2 ast in 33 minutes

[Bruno]

I wish Batum will be horrible in the French league playoffs. He needs some real games to fall close to Spurs pick.

The latest on French players on the Early entry list:
Batum will stay in for sure.
Ajinça should stay in.
De Colo and Beaubois will likely pull out.

[AA2120]

Chirs..Douglas..Roberts

[wildbill2u]

With the news that we may lose Splitter to a renewed contract with Tau, do we need to rethink our first pick? This draft is heavy in centers and PFs so maybe we'll go for someone like Robin Lopez or Pekovic.

Damn, I thought we were set at center with Splitter coming over.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

With the news that we may lose Splitter to a renewed contract with Tau, do we need to rethink our first pick? This draft is heavy in centers and PFs so maybe we'll go for someone like Robin Lopez or Pekovic.

Damn, I thought we were set at center with Splitter coming over.

The draft is still a whole month away, and I expect for Splitter to have some sort of response by then.

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

:pctoss

[Mr.Bottomtooth]

http://portokalada.com/sb-files/1196136648Kosta%20Koufos.jpg

[TheProfessor]

With the news that we may lose Splitter to a renewed contract with Tau, do we need to rethink our first pick? This draft is heavy in centers and PFs so maybe we'll go for someone like Robin Lopez or Pekovic.

Damn, I thought we were set at center with Splitter coming over.
So we lose Splitter, and you want to draft Pekovic, who reportedly was signing a new contract in Europe?

Robin Lopez makes some sense though, if he's available. The Lopez brothers idolize Duncan.