2018 NBA Mock Draft: What’s in store for the second round?

Though we typically associate San Antonio with toolsy bigs or defense-first wings, the Spurs always seem to have at least one smaller shooter on the roster whom they develop far past their projected ceiling. That player is Bryn Forbes right now, who has developed his playmaking and defensive effort tremendously since joining the Spurs. But Forbes is a restricted free agent this summer, meaning San Antonio could move on. Their replacement is within reach at No. 49.

Newman exploded as a redshirt sophomore after transferring to Kansas, shooting .463/.415/.835 after posting miserable splits as a freshman at Mississippi State. He was also, notably, the hero of the NCAA Tournament, shooting 13-27 over the first three games of the tournament. In the Final Four against Villanova, Newman stayed hot despite taking less 3s, scoring 21 points on 14 shots. For the season, the Jayhawks’ offense was nearly five points better when Newman was on the court, showing the value of his shot for an offense.

In order for San Antonio to maintain its defensive identity and craft more versatile lineups, they need a bigger and more switchable piece in Forbes’ place. They could also use Newman’s playmaking potential at the off-guard spot, which is still a work in progress for both players, though Newman is further along for his age.

In fact, San Antonio could even be well off developing both players, based on the idea you’ll see frequently in this mock — a team can never have too much shooting.