The San Antonio Spurs are gearing up for the future, eyeing the 2026 NBA Draft as a pivotal moment in their rebuilding process. According to the latest mock draft, the Spurs are projected to select Karim Lopez, a promising forward from the New Zealand Breakers, with their 11th pick.
Lopez has been turning heads with standout performances that could reshape scouts' perceptions. At 6-8 and 225 pounds, he's a dynamic player who brings a mix of size, skill, and potential that aligns perfectly with the Spurs' vision. His ability to score off the dribble, coupled with his ball-handling and playmaking skills, draws comparisons to versatile players like Franz Wagner.
The Spurs have a history of valuing length, versatility, and team-oriented basketball, and Lopez fits the bill. His offensive prowess, including self-created scoring opportunities and flashes of shooting ability, suggests he could thrive in a modern NBA system.
Currently, Lopez is averaging just under 12 points and six rebounds per game, with notable defensive contributions of a steal and a block per game. His shooting stats are impressive too, hitting 50 percent from the field and over 30 percent from beyond the arc.
San Antonio fans have fond memories of the last high-profile international pick, who became a cornerstone of the franchise. This history might make them more inclined to take another chance on a foreign player like Lopez.
With an aging Harrison Barnes at power forward, Lopez could be the perfect addition alongside Wemby in the frontcourt, addressing a key need for the Spurs and setting the stage for a bright future.