Spurs select Luka Samanic with No. 19 pick

With the No. 19 pick of the 2019 NBA Draft, the San Antonio Spurs selected Croatian forward Luka Samanic.

He was expected to be a potential draft-and-stash candidate but was able to show his NBA readiness at the combine where he was splashing from the perimeter and locking down multiple positions defensively. Spurs GM R.C. Buford confirmed Samanic is expected to be with the team next season, according to San Antonio Express-News' Jeff McDonald.

Samanic is a prototypical modern big with plenty of versatility and talent to stick around as a legitimate rotational player for several years. Expect his high IQ and soft touch to stand out when he eventually gets his opportunity to shine.

Bio

Position: F
Club: Olimpija (Slovenia)
Height: 6-foot-11
Weight: 227 lbs.
Wingspan: 6-foot-11
Max Vertical: 38 inches

Strengths

• Big power forward with an ability to knock down 3-pointers and finish inside.
• Excellent footwork and movement. Has tremendous balance and fluidity as he runs the floor or plays the pick-and-roll/pop.
• Will be underrated as a defender due to his background. Can comfortably switch onto the perimeter and shows a willingness to battle against opposing bigs despite limited strength.

Weaknesses

• Needs to pack on some muscle to battle against size.
• Despite solid versatility, no skill stands out above the rest.