zimpy27 wrote:Sure, Spurs could give #14, #38 and 1-2x future FRPs
I just like the idea of Spurs trading out of top 2-4 since you're looking at all guards that mirror Fox-Castle abilities. At #5 you're getting either Ace or Kon. You end up with a great fitting lineup
Fox, Castle, Kon/Ace, Durant, Wemby
FWIW, and it may not be much because I carry a pro-Harper bias, I don't see Harper as much like Fox or Castle. I can see some overlap with Fox, perhaps, in the basic sense that both present as primary offensive engines, but their play styles are not identical, so they shouldn't be duplicative unless both guys are intent on the "taking turns" approach instead of leaning into being a secondary creator at times. Even if that occurs and the fit is off, I think the Spurs should bet on Harper's rookie year and ship him only after he shows out. This is not a case where his value is highest as a draft pick, IMO, because a lot of people (and thus probably front offices) believe Harper has a lot to prove. (Of course, if the Spurs also question his upside, then they don't draft him, and a move down as you suggest has merit. Maybe there is implied doubt of Harper baked into your thinking here?)
Also, I know you said Kon
or Ace, but I have Ace Bailey as a seriously suspect pick for the Spurs or anybody in the top five-ish. He'll experience terrible growing pains and probably find himself trying out a dozen roles before finding his NBA groove (if he does at all), and San Antonio ain't got time for that. I may be unduly harsh, but I can only see Ace thriving where he is the featured prospect who can make tons of mistakes and learn from them, but this in turn could stifle others' development. To teams in the high lottery, I would say walk away in favor of somebody fitting a clearer NBA archetype or possessing skills already displayed against good competition.
Maybe he works in Washington or Charlotte if they favor the big swing over immediate returns, but I'll just admit I am not a fan.
If San Antonio doesn't like Harper for whatever reason, Knueppel could be a reasonable target, but as much as I may like him, that's a disappointing pull from their starting position of second in the draft. I'd sooner pivot to veteran help than trade down, which is probably an unpopular idea with Spurs fans. Also, fit be darned, they can just pick Edgecombe. He certainly improves their athleticism and defensive energy and arguably has upside equal to Harper's on account of the physical gifts and apparent competitive drive.
I probably post too much about San Antonio's draft situation. I just find it a fascination position to be in.