Philadelphia 76ers: Filling out the 2018 NBA rookie survey

Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images)
Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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Which rookie is the most athletic?

  • 1. Zhaire Smith, Philadelphia 76ers
  • 2. Hamidou Diallo, Oklahoma City Thunder
  • 3. Mitchell Robinson, New York Knicks
  • 4. Marvin Bagley III, Sacramento Kings
  • 5. Josh Okogie, Minnesota Timberwolves

“Best athlete” is hard to quantify, but Smith takes the crown rather comfortably. He has the measurements and the functional on-court displays of athleticism to back up that claim. He’s an explosive leaper off one and two feet, while his length and quickness at 6-foot-4 is tantalizing.

Diallo’s skill hasn’t caught up to his athleticism, but slotting him in the No. 2 spot seems fair. He has all the measurements you could ask for and is liable for some rim-rocking dunks when given the opportunity.

Robinson made a compelling case for the No. 1 spot in Summer League. He’ll give Knicks fans plenty to cheer for next season, covering lots of ground on defense and throwing down every lob thrown within a 20-foot radius (that might be a slight exaggeration).

Bagley was one of the few players whose athleticism shined at Duke. He’s an elite rebounder, largely due to his quick leaping ability. He’s also mobile for his size with immense lob-catching potential, two traits that will serve him well offensively.

Okogie tested well at the combine and projects as a long, physical defensive presence. He, like everyone on this list, can put together some impressive sequences on both ends due to his vertical explosiveness.