Replacing Tony Parker: 5 Candidates In 2017
By Sai Mohan
Dejounte Murray
The Spurs have a history of turning late first rounders and second rounders into critical pieces of championship teams.
Danny Green, a former No. 46 pick, and Tony Parker, a former No. 28 pick, have formed San Antonio’s backcourt for the last four seasons, which includes two trips to the Finals and one title. Manu Ginobili, a former No. 57 pick, is a future Hall of Famer.
Gregg Popovich has made a career out of turning late draft picks into exceptional players.
Dejounte Murray, Pop’s latest project, was forecast as a top-10 pick in several big boards prior to the 2016 draft. And that’s why many analysts felt the Spurs were fortunate to draft the Huskies guard at No. 29.
Murray’s performance in the Summer League exuded much confidence. But we’d find out a little more about the guard during the preseason in October when Murray steps onto the court with his senior teammates.
ESPN draft expert Chad Ford reckons Murray has the potential to be an All-Star down the road:
"“Murray has a chance to be an All-Star-caliber guard. He’s terrific off the bounce, getting to the rim and making plays for others. He’s a great rebounder, he’s tough and he has a flair for passing the ball. He needs to become a better shooter, but it feels like the Spurs just added another important piece to their quiet rebuild.”"
If Murray shows promising signs, the Spurs could avoid pursuing point guards next offseason. That would be the ideal scenario since the payroll would prefer a rookie contract to a max contract. It would give the front office flexibility to surround Aldridge and Leonard with other top talent.
Murray, a 6-foot-5 guard, averaged 16.1 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.4 assists for the Washington Huskies in his one-and-done collegiate career.
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