If league expansion happens, who should the Sixers keep?

LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 9: Robert Covington #33, Markelle Fultz #20 and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on during practice as part of the 2018 NBA London Global Game at Citysport on January 9, 2018 in London, England. 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
LONDON, ENGLAND - JANUARY 9: Robert Covington #33, Markelle Fultz #20 and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on during practice as part of the 2018 NBA London Global Game at Citysport on January 9, 2018 in London, England. 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 2018 NBAE (Photo by Jesse D. Garrabrant/NBAE via Getty Images)
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(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

4. Dario Saric

If Fultz returns to form, I’m among the few who believe Saric — not Redick — should move to the bench. Keeping Redick’s movement and spacing in the starting group, where he can open up driving lanes for Simmons, Fultz and Embiid, makes the most roster sense.

With that said, Saric remains one of the Sixers’ most valuable offensive pieces. He emerged as a 39.3 percent three-point shooter last season, adjusting to a new role and producing with impressive efficiency next to the Sixers’ core.

He also showcased his playmaking chops in spurts, dropping some impressive dimes from a variety of spots on the floor. The Sixers can’t necessarily tap into Saric’s full offensive potential in his current role, but he’s a dynamic, highly skilled player who could thrive in as the sixth man.

Coming off the bench, Brett Brown can set up the rotations so that Saric is on the floor whenever Simmons and/or Embiid sits. That allows him to utilize his playmaking chops more often, whether it be post-up touches or initiating the offense.

Saric remains a liability on the defensive end, which is easily the most concerning aspect of his game. He can’t really defend in space, while Saric’s effort on the post doesn’t always equate to successful defensive possessions.

Nonetheless, offensive skill alone makes Saric an easy keep in the event of expansion. He will be eligible for an extension next season and will hit restricted free agency in the summer of 2020. There’s a good chance that, barring a trade, the Sixers keep him around long term.