2. Kristaps Porzingis, F, Latvia (Sevilla)
Another option if the Sixers go international at the top of the draft could be Kristaps Porzingis, who withdrew from the 2014 Draft right before the deadline. A gifted athlete who has potential as a stretch-four, Porzingis has range out to the three-point line and a growing arsenal of post moves. He’s not consistent here, but the potential is there once the 19-year-old grows into his frame. The Sixers have spent a lot of their picks in the Sam Hinkie era on big men, but Porzingis has the offensive game to compliment Embiid, Saric, and Nerlens Noel well.
Defensively, Porzingis looks like another very talented shot blocker, but he’s not very good at much else. However, his abilities on the offensive end should definitely counter defensive liabilities to some extent. And, while Hezonja has to wait behind more established options for playing time, Porzingis should go into this season at Sevilla as a full-time starting forward, allowing him to grow on both ends.
If Porzingis becomes more consistent on both ends this season, and gets a larger chance to showcase his excellent athleticism, he should be a sure-fire top-10 pick in 2015. He has a favorable buyout, and the Sixers could definitely work with him, Noel, and Embiid as a three-headed monster in the post; with Noel bringing the defense, Porzingis supplying spacing and rim protection, and Embiid cleaning up the boards and scoring down low.