The San Antonio Spurs are making strides in the NBA, buoyed by the talent of Victor Wembanyama and a roster blending youth with experience. However, lingering shadows from the 2022 NBA Draft continue to haunt the franchise. With three first-round picks—Nos. 9, 20, and 25—the Spurs had the opportunity to secure impactful players but ultimately fell short.
2022 NBA Draft Disappointments
At pick No. 9, the Spurs selected Jeremy Sochan, a player with notable defensive skills and playmaking potential. Despite high expectations, he has struggled offensively, averaging only 4.2 points per game this season. Sochan now finds himself on the outskirts of the team’s rotation.
The Spurs’ selections at No. 20 and No. 25 were equally disappointing. Malaki Branham, chosen at No. 20, has yet to make a significant impact, while Blake Wesley, the No. 25 pick, has seen limited playing time, featuring in only seven games. With this lack of development, both players were released last summer.
Missed Opportunities
What exacerbates the situation is the success of players available during the Spurs’ draft choices. For instance, Jalen Williams, picked 12th by another team, has emerged as a top scoring threat and was instrumental on a title-winning team last season. Similarly, Jalen Duren, selected 13th, has become an All-Star with the Detroit Pistons, raising questions about the Spurs’ decision.
- Jalen Williams: 12th pick, top scoring threat.
- Jalen Duren: 13th pick, All-Star center.
- Tari Eason: 17th pick, versatile defensive player.
Another notable miss was selecting Malaki Branham ahead of Christian Braun, who has developed into an essential 3-and-D player for the Denver Nuggets. Meanwhile, at No. 25, the Spurs overlooked Andrew Nembhard, who dramatically contributed to the Indiana Pacers’ success in the NBA Finals.
Future Considerations
As the Spurs aim to build a competitive roster, the 2022 draft decisions loom large. They could have transformed their future with selections like Williams, Braun, or even Peyton Watson—another breakout player this season. The contrasts between current performances and the Spurs’ draft choices highlight the depths of their draft missteps.
Looking ahead, the Spurs must evaluate their roster, potentially trading Sochan or letting him go in free agency. The lessons from the 2022 NBA Draft are clear: improved choices could have set the foundation for a more robust future.
