Why did Philadelphia 76ers trade up for Anzejs Pasecniks?

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BROOKLYN, NY – JUNE 22: Anzejs Pasecniks speaks with the media after being selected 25th overall by the Orlando Magic at the 2017 NBA Draft on June 22, 2017 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Stephen Pellegrino/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Reason I: He was too good to pass up

Let’s face it. The number of 7-foot-2 basketball players available in a draft is growing, but is still a small number. The number of 7-foot-2 basketball players who can do what Joel Embiid does is one: Joel Embiid.

But let’s not focus on what Joel Embiid does as a player personally. Let’s focus on the dimensions, and the potential, of 7-foot-2 at the basket. At 7-foot-2, the rest of the NBA looks smaller. That’s the reality. For taller players, they cannot carry the weight in the longer form to truly play physical at the center position. For shorter players, they can add more muscle, but at the height disadvantage. So Anzejs Pasecniks is 7-foot-2. So what?

He can work the basketball court

Ah, but he can play.

And it’s that combination of size and skill that made him rare enough in the NBA Draft to persuade the Philadelphia 76ers to move up to get him. He has the size and instincts to play defense. He has the courage and moves to play offense.

Win win.