2024 NBA Lottery Mock Draft: Blazers swing for upside, Spurs stockpile guards
By Reese Kunz
4. San Antonio Spurs choose Reed Sheppard
The San Antonio Spurs can take this pick in several different directions, including trading it to get Victor Wembanyama more help. But assuming they keep it, the Spurs need to target a guard to complement Wemby. The good news for the Spurs is that there are plenty of viable options in this range.
Something else they may factor into their decision at pick No. 4 is who they think could still be around at pick No. 8. The Pistons, Hornets, and Blazers are between the Spurs. All have incredibly similar roster constructions regarding having a franchise guard, a promising center, and a glaring need for forwards. If the Spurs have a forward they are interested in, they may take one here, knowing that there will likely still be one of the top guards available at No. 8.
In this scenario, though, Kentucky guard Reed Sheppard is too tempting to pass up. Sheppard is a bit undersized at 6-foot-3, but that’s about the only knock on him as a prospect. His floor spacing, decision-making, and defensive energy would be a perfect complementary piece to pair with Wembanyama. Sheppard can also play as a combo guard at the next level, which gives the Spurs more flexibility for their next pick.