Philadelphia 76ers: An early look at notable 2019 NBA Draft prospects

What names should Philadelphia 76ers fans be watching in the 2019 NBA Draft class?

The 2018-2019 NBA season hasn’t begun yet, but it’s never too early to look ahead to next year’s draft class. For the purpose of this article, because we can’t predict where the Philadelphia 76ers will end up picking, I will be analyzing the best players at the best fit for the team.

The following are the top five draft prospects the Sixers front office should keep their eyes on this season, and all are incoming freshmen.

5. Romeo Langford, SG, Indiana

Langford is what you want in a shooting guard; he’s great off the dribble, can create his own offense and has a good enough of a jump shot. He’s 6-foot-6 and 200 pounds, so he has solid size at his position. His defensive ability leaves some to be desired, and critics will point to his occasional passiveness at key moments during games, but we haven’t seen him on a college court yet. Look for Langford to be a lottery pick come June.

4. Zion Williamson, F, Duke

You probably know Zion from his viral dunk videos seen all over social media in the past couple years. Now, this high school legend is headed to Duke to play under Coach K. Williamson is 6-foot-7 and 285 pounds. You read that right — 285!

He already has the size to wreak havoc on NBA defenses, the question is does he have the ability? He is perhaps the most lethal threat in his class when driving towards the basket. He attacks the rim like it owes him money. He is a good defender, and can guard multiple positions. The only question mark is his jumper, but I think he’ll have a solid three-point percentage this season.

3. R.J. Barrett, SF, Duke

Barrett is the early favorite to go first overall. His offensive game is incredibly polished, and he seems the most NBA-ready in his class. At high school All-Star games, he stood out and was clearly the best player on a court that had the nation’s best players on it.

At 6-foot-7 and 210 pounds, Barrett has the size to make an immediate impact at the next level. Critics are worried about his three-point shot, but it shouldn’t be an area of much concern, as he is an able shooter. His competitive nature and hustle are defining traits of his game.

2. Nassir Little, SF, North Carolina

Little make a name for himself at high school All-Star games and national invitationals, impressing crowds and scouts alike. At 6-foot-6, 215 pounds, Little thrives when driving downhill and attacking the rim with aggression.

Equipped with a 7-foot-1 wingspan, he has all the tools to become a great defender at the next level. The only critique of his game is centered on his shot selection, which will come with college game experience. Expect him to become the focal point of the North Carolina offense.

1. Cam Reddish, SG/SF, Duke

Perhaps the most gifted player in his class, Cam Reddish doesn’t have any holes in his game. He possesses incredible vision, allowing him to be a premier playmaker. He is a good jump-shooter, and a solid three-point shooter.

At 6-foot-9, 205 pounds, Reddish has the size and ability to become one of the best perimeter defenders in the nation this season. He has great handles, and can attack the rim at will. The only knack critics have is that he can seem nonchalant or uncaring, which can be a byproduct of being that much better than his opponents in high school.

With the competition level of the ACC, expect to uncover Reddish’s competitive streak.