The Sixer Sense
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Philadelphia 76ers: Where Ben Simmons ranks among all starting point guards

By Christopher Kline

Kyrie Irving, Boston Celtics | Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Kyrie Irving, Boston Celtics | Ben Simmons, Philadelphia 76ers (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images) /

30. Elie Okobo, Phoenix Suns

The Suns are still searching the trade market for a starting point guard, but until then, either Elie Okobo or De’Anthony Melton — both of whom were second-round picks this summer — will compete for the job. Okobo and Melton both graded out as top-25 prospects on my board.

As the higher pick Okobo should be viewed as a slight favorite. He’s a silky lefty with three-level scoring ability and upside as a playmaker. Give him some time to develop.

29. D.J. Augustin, Orlando Magic

Augustin is what he is at this point. The 30-year-old shot 41.9 percent from deep last season, spacing the floor for an Orlando team that’s lacking in that department. He has proven himself to be a solid, stabilizing force at point guard. He’s a backup on most teams, though.

28. Elfrid Payton, New Orleans Pelicans

Payton hasn’t lived up to the hype after the Sixers offloaded him for Dario Saric on draft night. He showed flashes with Phoenix last season, but he’s a subpar shooter and hasn’t performed as well as many expected on defense. Hopefully the haircut helps his shooting stroke.