5 options for 10th pick in the 2018 NBA Draft

Miles Bridges, Michigan State

A bit of a tweener positionally, Bridges should spent time at both the three and four in the NBA. He’s only 6-6, but can use his strong frame and athleticism to hang with bigger players — giving the Sixers some nice versatility on the defensive end.

Most of Bridges’ value will be derived from his work off the ball. He’s already a solid spot-up shooter, knocking down 36.4 percent of his three-point attempts on a relatively high volume. It would be easy for Brett Brown to plug him in as a small-ball four who can space the floor.

Bridges can also do good work driving to the basket. He needs to clean up his handles, but is capable of taking slower players off the bounce and powering through contact at the rim. His thick frame allows him to absorb contract and finish well in traffic.

Especially against smaller defenders, Bridges can make some tough off-the-dribble shots. Cleaning up his handles, again, will be important, but he can hit pull-up jumpers. If he makes those improvements, there’s some go-to scoring potential.

Given Bridges’ athleticism — he’s probably the second-best athlete in the draft next to the aforementioned Smith, if not on the same tier — he also thrives as a cutter. His ability to make hard cuts and finish above the rim could be nifty next to a playmaker of Ben Simmons’ ilk.

Defense has always been a mixed bag for Bridges. His lack of a true position could hurt him in some respect, but he’s strong enough to handle guarding four positions physically. His 6-9 wingspan is shorter than some would like, but he has the athletic gifts to overcome that.

Energy and engagement fluctuates for Bridges. He makes some eye-popping plays, whether it be slipping into passing lanes or skying for a weak-side block. The only question is whether or not he consistently puts in the effort needed to maximize his two-way potential.