Sixers Options in the NBA Draft

Sixers Options in the Draft

Coming off a dismal season in which the team finished 27-55, the Sixers were no doubt surprised when the ping pong balls fell their way in the draft lottery and gave them the 2nd pick in the upcoming draft. The most obvious choice is Evan Turner, the star out of Ohio State University. But this isn't necessarily the way the Sixers will go.

Option 1- Draft Turner
As mentioned above, this is the most likely option. Turner is a guy with a well-rounded offensive game along with a strong defensive game aided by his large wingspan. He has the potential to come in and start right away for the Sixers. He could also be the go-to scorer that the Sixers are lacking. However, he has drawn comparisons to being an Andre Iguodala clone, in that he can play multiple positions and is not a strong outside shooter. The Sixers would have a strong perimeter defense, but a horrendous interior D that was not helped when Dalembert was shipped out of town. This could be solved with an Iguodala trade, but the Sixers would almost certainly not get equal value on the trade.

Option 2- Draft Favors or Cousins
Derrick Favors and DeMarcus Cousins would give the Sixers a balanced defensive team inside and out. The liability on the team with the addition of either one of them would be the continued lack of a true scorer. Neither Favors nor Cousins will likely become an immediate threat to score. The Sixers would be headed back the lottery next season. On the other hand, both players have an incredibly high ceiling, and could be an excellent choice planning ahead for the distant future.

Option 3- Draft Wesley Johnson, despite being a reach
Wes Johnson could potentially solve many needs for the Sixers. He is a skilled outside shooter with the ability to drive the ball inside as well. He could be the scorer the Sixers are looking for. Critics complain that Johnson's potential is limiting, already at the old age of 23. However, Johnson can compensate for that because of the fact that his floor is already high. With Johnson, the Sixers may not get a star, but an excellent role player who can contribute an added dimension to the Sixer offense.

Option 4- Trade
Although all sources point toward this option being out, you never know what GM Stefanski has up his sleeves. If the Sixers can land a blockbuster trade that gives them a strong core for years to come, then watch out.