Dylan Harper Likely No. 2 Pick; Spurs May Trade Down Options

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, all eyes are on Dylan Harper, the standout guard from Rutgers, who is widely projected to be the second overall pick. The San Antonio Spurs, who recently secured the No. 2 selection in the draft lottery, are in a prime position to select Harper. However, the intrigue surrounding potential trade scenarios has sparked discussions about whether the Spurs will retain their pick or explore options to move down in the draft order.

The Spurs’ path to the second pick mirrors a situation reminiscent of the Sacramento Kings’ decision in 2020. During that draft, the Kings surprised many by selecting Tyrese Haliburton at No. 12, despite having an established star point guard in De’Aaron Fox already on their roster. Fast forward to today, and San Antonio finds itself in a similar conundrum. The franchise acquired Fox from Sacramento earlier this season, adding a proven scorer to complement their emerging superstar, Victor Wembanyama.

Despite San Antonio’s apparent need for a guard, the best available talent on the board is clearly Harper, who is considered the consensus second-best prospect in this draft class, trailing only Duke’s Cooper Flagg. According to CBS Sports, Harper is currently the favorite at -4000 to be picked second overall, underscoring a significant expectation among analysts and fans alike.

While the Spurs could benefit from adding Harper’s scoring ability and playmaking skills, the team’s management might also contemplate trading down to gather additional assets. Sources have indicated that several teams are eyeing the Spurs’ pick, looking to secure Harper for themselves. This potential trade scenario could reshape the landscape of the draft, allowing San Antonio to bolster its roster in multiple areas instead of focusing solely on one player.

Historically, the NBA Draft has been full of surprises, and the Spurs’ decision in the coming weeks could alter their trajectory for years to come. The franchise’s recent acquisition of Fox was a strategic move to enhance their backcourt, but drafting Harper could provide a dynamic duo that could rival some of the league’s best. The stakes are high, and the front office will need to weigh the immediate impact of selecting Harper against the long-term benefits of trading down.

With a wealth of talent available in this draft, the Spurs will need to remain vigilant as they approach the decision-making process. The possibility of pursuing trade discussions adds an extra layer of complexity, setting the stage for a potentially thrilling draft night. As reported by CBS Sports, the Spurs’ front office will analyze all options to ensure they make the best choice for the future of the franchise.

Ultimately, this draft could mark a pivotal moment for San Antonio, and all eyes will be on the Spurs as they prepare to navigate the complexities of their No. 2 pick and the future of their roster.