The San Antonio Spurs are quietly assembling a core that could redefine the future of the NBA. With the Dallas Mavericks securing the first pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Spurs will have the second overall pick. If they keep this spot, many draft experts believe they will select Dylan Harper from Rutgers. And it’s not just one prediction—multiple draft projections are pointing in the same direction.
The Spurs already have Victor Wembanyama, a generational talent who is making waves in the trade market, and Stephon Castle, who is shining as a top-class rookie. Now, they seem focused on adding Dylan Harper, a smart guard known for his strong scoring skills. Together, this young core could definitely take the Spurs to new heights.
Dylan Harper Emerges as Spurs’ Top Draft Target—But One Key Skill Still Raises Questions
Dylan Harper may not claim the No. 1 spot in the 2025 NBA Draft. The Dallas Mavericks hold that pick, and they are expected to select Cooper Flagg from Duke University. So, with the Spurs picking second, they have time to scout top prospects like Harper.
With the draft set for June 25, the Spurs still have time to evaluate top talent. While Ace Bailey was once projected as a possible No. 2 pick, recent mock drafts now have Dylan Harper as the favorite. Many see him as the ideal fit due to his exceptional defensive IQ, which he consistently showcased during his college days.
In his freshman season at Rutgers, Harper averaged 19.4 points per game. He showed he can score, create plays, and control the game’s pace. Standing 6-foot-4.5 and playing with strength, he’s a versatile player on defense who can guard several positions well.
“The San Antonio Spurs are signaling to teams that they are very excited for the opportunity to draft Dylan Harper. They are not pursuing trades… They think they can play Harper together with Castle & Fox in the same backcourt” (ESPN)pic.twitter.com/IOb7QESzPV
— Ty Jäger (@TheTyJager) May 14, 2025
According to a recent mock draft from Pro Football Network, Harper would fit in perfectly with the program. With Victor Wembanyama dominating the paint and players like De’Aaron Fox, Stephon Castle, and Devin Vassell already in place, Harper’s playmaking and versatility would round out a powerful young core. As the report put it, “He gives San Antonio another dynamic creator and rounds out a young core that could power the franchise for years to come.”
Yes, the Spurs do have a loaded backcourt. But the Scarlet Knights guard has a gift for making others better. So, he might not worry about that, but Spurs fans could focus on one concern that might push coach Mitch Johnson and general manager Brian Wright—his three-point shooting ability.
We know how important perimeter shooting is in today’s game. When we watch Stephen Curry drain those accurate long-range shots, it reminds us of the class and skill required at the highest level. If the New Jersey native wants to prove himself as the No. 2 overall pick, developing his three-point shot is mandatory.
KEEP READING: Ace Bailey or Dylan Harper: Who is Favored To Go No. 2 in the 2025 NBA Draft?
The concern right now is Harper’s three-point percentage, which sits at 33.3%. It’s still a work in progress, and his consistency from long range remains a question. It will be interesting to see where the 19-year-old lands, but as of now, he is the top favorite for the San Antonio Spurs.
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