Draft options for the Sixers
In Philly, they’re at the point where the draft isn’t as important as it was in years past. There is no public outcry to grab the top college prospect and have him lead the team to prominence. Nowadays the draft picks are viewed more as a bargaining chip. Trade the No. 10 pick and a certain player for a certain superstar is the common theme. That is as it should be though. The Sixers won 52 games and have their sights set on an NBA title. To achieve that, the improvement will more than likely come from free agency and trades for veteran help. But that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything useful in the draft. Assuming they don’t trade any picks here are some players that can be useful for the Sixers in the upcoming NBA draft:
Options at 10
Mikal Bridges – He’s an obvious scheme fit and already a fan favorite. Bridges defense on the perimeter and 3 point shooting would be a welcome addition. Doesn’t have the huge upside that captures the imagination but still solid. Low ceiling, high floor type player.
Miles Bridges – Bridges is a very athletic and energetic player with a developing offensive game. A bit of a tweener. His best position may be at the 4. Has a ways to go, but he can develop into an exciting player.
Kevin Knox – An extremely talented scorer. Has a consistent jump shot that’s only going to improve. Has that upside that I spoke of earlier. Has to figure out the rest of his game. He needs a lot of coaching but could be a gem long term.
Lonnie Walker – Talented player with excellent 2-way potential. Shooting, Ball handling, Defense are all good but need improvement to make an impact on the NBA level. Overall a very good prospect at SG.
Robert Williams – A bit of a long shot for Philly, but at 6’9 with a 7’4 wingspan, Williams would be a big help as a rim protector when Embiid sits. Uber-athletic and quick enough to defend on the perimeter. He can offer energy, defense and rebounding while his offense comes around.
Options at 26
Jerome Robinson – A 6’6 combo guard that can shoot the lights out. Able to score on all three levels. Willing passer. The only concern is if he can defend at an NBA level.
Chandler Hutchinson – A 3 and D player that’s all the rage in the NBA right now. A much improved 3 ball and good defensive ability gives Hutchinson a shot to play early. He also offers ball handling and play-making abilities.
Shake Milton – Another 6’6 combo guard with great shooting ability. Quick with the ball and a good passer. Needs to improve decision making and shot selection.
Donte DiVencenzo – He may go before 26 with his excellent athletic testing at the NBA Combine. Excellent upside player coming from a great program in college.
Khyrie Thomas – A bit undersized for a SG, but makes up for it with extremely long arms. One of the best defensive players in this draft class. Thomas also offers decent 3 point shooting and an ability to finish at the rim.
Tyus Battle – A true wild card. Undecided whether or not he’ll stay in the draft. Battle has a great ability to create his own shot. Can score at every level with his good ball handling and jump shot.
2nd Round options
Rodions Kurucs – An athletic forward that can do a bit of everything. Would be a great draft and stash option.
Isaac Bamba – 6’9 with PG abilities. Very fast and a good ball handler for his size. Needs to work on his J, and he’s paper thin. Another draft and stash option.
Melvin Frazier – Defensively he can play right now. Offensively he needs to work on everything. Still a very solid wing player.
Rawle Alkins – Has the size and strength to play early. Offers playmaking, shooting, and energy. Would be a good bench player.
Legerald Vick – Long and athletic player with 3&D upside.
It should be interesting to see which players will join The Process going forward.
Eugene Holt is a Writer for Couch Rider Report. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter.
