2016 NBA Mock Draft: What Happens After Simmons and Ingram?

Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the full first round draft board at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 25, 2015; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the full first round draft board at the conclusion of the first round of the 2015 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 24, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; General view of the arena with the playoffs logo is seen before the game between the Los Angeles Clippers and San Antonio Spurs in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 24, 2015; San Antonio, TX, USA; General view of the arena with the playoffs logo is seen before the game between the Los Angeles Clippers and San Antonio Spurs in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at AT&T Center. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports

With the uncertainty around Tim Duncan’s future, the San Antonio Spurs would welcome more depth in the front court with Thon Maker.

Maker is still mostly an unknown in the sense that he’s never played basketball consistently against high-level competition, but the Spurs organization is one of the best at developing young players. Maker declaring for the draft was a mistake, in the words of many, but it would be great for him as a player if he ended up in San Antonio, Texas. He measured, tested and interviewed well at the NBA combine.

As noted, the Spurs have had great success in years past with developing players with holes in their game. The Spurs are confident they can turn any prospect into a quality NBA player, especially Maker. He possesses a combination of raw potential and work ethic, which are things the Spurs are always looking for in young talent. If he is available at number 29, the Spurs may grab him with a view to further his development behind Lamarcus Aldridge and Duncan and in the D-League next year.

Next: No. 30