8P9S NBA Mock Draft 1.0: With the 26th pick, the Indiana Pacers select…
By Ben Gibson
No. 29 — San Antonio Spurs (via Toronto Raptors):
Nickeil Alexander-Walker,G
School: Virginia Tech | Class: Sophomore | Height: 6’5″ | Weight: 205 | Age: 20
The Spurs probably need help at nearly every position (looking long-term), so a combo guard like Nickeil Alexander-Walker fits the bill perfectly.
Alexander-Walker’s 16.5 points a game come thanks to the fact he can score in more than one way. His ability to finish at the rim — with both hands — and solid 3-point shooting (38.4 percent career average) are his strengths on offense while his propensity for turnovers (3.8 assists to 2.9 turnovers) leaves something to be desired.
Alexander-Walker’s defense is solid with two steals a game, and more encouragingly, come without risking too much. He displays some of his defensive basketball IQ by being an opportunistic defender versus an overly aggressive one that leaves the team’s defense vulnerable while trying to be the hero.
The Hokies play zone defense, so while there are some questions on just how strong his defense is, he is showing the right skills within his team’s scheme. Finding the right role is required, but that isn’t too much to ask of Gregg Popovich.