Spurs Rumors: Dzanan Musa set for pre-draft workout
By Rob Wolkenbrod
The San Antonio Spurs will reportedly work out Dzanan Musa, an international prospect that chose to stay in the draft. Who is this player, though?
The San Antonio Spurs have a long history of international draft picks which includes Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker, who were selected out of their native countries of Argentina and France, respectively. Tim Duncan, who attended Wake Forest, even came from the U.S. Virgin Islands.
San Antonio has not selected an international prospect since 2015, when Nikola Milutinov went No. 26 overall in the first round. Three years later, he has yet to debut and there’s no indication it will happen, but it’s difficult to assume this will stop the franchise from overseas players.
For the 2018 NBA Draft, few international players are involved in the first round, at least in mock drafts. Luka Doncic is the obvious name that stands out, but later on, in the opening set of picks, there’s Dzanan Musa, who could be available for the Spurs at No. 18. In case that happens, they have planned a workout with him before next Thursday’s draft, according to Scott Agness of Vigilant Sports.
Most interesting prospect to come through is Džanan Musa.
He’s 19, lived on his own since 11, took part in the NBA Global Camp in Treviso, and today was his first team workout.
Four more scheduled: Blazers, Nuggets, Spurs, Jazz. pic.twitter.com/4Cp4hltfDF
— Scott Agness (@ScottAgness) June 11, 2018
Who is Dzanan Musa?
If the Spurs make Musa their latest international pick, they will get a 6′ 9” small forward from Bosnia & Herzegovina that’s a shade under 200 pounds, according to NBADraft.net. That’s not a strong NBA body, so he likely will need to bulk at the next level and take some time to do so, whether that’s more time overseas or a stint in the G League.
As for Musa’s skill set, he’s a versatile offensive player that can handle the ball and play any of point guard, shooting guard and small forward. A lack of elite athleticism might prevent him from covering the former two on defense, so there are some potential limitations in his usage.
Musa can stretch the floor, something that any NBA team will take, especially with someone of his size. He proved it more than ever for Cedevita in 2017-18:
Provided by Basketball-Reference.com: View Original Table
The sharp increase in production seemingly opened the ideas of many NBA teams, with intrigue in how well this will translate in North America. It’s promising and should mean he at least takes a bench role with whichever team selects him.
NBADraft.net, though, noted an “inconsistent motor” in Musa’s game, as he’s described as a passionate player that lets his emotions get to him. This can be worked through, but it’s something to note.
Musa seems like a multi-year project for whichever team takes him. That’s not a bad thing, but it comes down to how fast he adds weight and not only if he can bring his 3-point shot to the NBA, but develop an offensive game beyond this.
There are some things to like and dislike about Musa’s game, but that’s the case with any prospect before the draft. Will he join the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday, June 21?