In Chicago, the focus wasn`t solely on Cooper Flagg during the lottery night. Dylan Harper, widely considered the top prospect for the No. 2 pick, also faced scrutiny. Similar to Flagg, his situation changed unexpectedly when San Antonio secured the second overall selection.
San Antonio previously drafted Stephon Castle with the fourth pick last year (who won Rookie of the Year) and reportedly acquired point guard De`Aaron Fox (an All-Star in his prime). This raises questions about Harper`s immediate playing time in San Antonio compared to potential destinations like Washington or Brooklyn, where he`d likely be the primary ball-handler from the start.
Although it`s not guaranteed San Antonio will select Harper, reports suggest he`s quickly become receptive to joining the esteemed franchise, which seems poised for long-term contention.
However, Harper`s name is appearing in more than just mock drafts; it`s also part of early offseason trade rumors.
Perhaps the most significant speculation at the Chicago draft combine centered on the trade market for Giannis Antetokounmpo and the potential involvement of San Antonio`s No. 2 pick. Reports just before the lottery indicated Antetokounmpo might be open to a move. With Wembanyama and Fox (as suggested), the Spurs could offer both immediate competitiveness and attractive assets for Milwaukee.
Many in Chicago considered a scenario where San Antonio might trade Castle and the No. 2 pick, allowing Milwaukee to rebuild potentially with Harper (drafted at #2) and Castle. This scenario was widely discussed.
Even if a Giannis trade seems unlikely, the Spurs` position has attracted significant interest. Other players, such as Kevin Durant, were also mentioned in rumors, though San Antonio would reportedly not trade the second pick for the veteran star.
However, the general expectation is that the No. 2 pick is unlikely to be traded. Currently, the focus remains on Harper and how San Antonio will use this pick, which could either define the top of the draft or dramatically alter the trade environment.
Jasper Hawthorne