So people are thinking the Spurs ought to miss the playoffs for a better chance to draft... LaMelo Ball.
Or whoever. The point being, this does not project as a strong draft class. There may not be a dramatic difference between the #5 pick and the #20 pick, this time around. Or even #1 and #21.
Maybe things will change as the season continues. Maybe a few players will emerge as sure-thing prospects. It hasn't happened yet.
It's much better, this year, to go for the playoffs. A little more hotel business, and restaurant business. City tax revenue. A couple more tv appearances. Some more playoff experience for the youngsters. That's better than a draft where it looks like any of the picks the Spurs could get will be an Austin project for two years.
But what of those who say, "Oh, woe is me! If the Spurs lose in the first round, I shall be so humiliated and despondent that I shall surely swoon! Oh, woe!"
What of them?
Rub some dirt on it.