3. Danial Gafford, Arkansas
The Sixers need new life at the center position. All four reserves — Boban Marjanovic, Jonah Bolden, Greg Monroe and Amir Johnson — were untenable in the postseason. Philadelphia will rely more on load management for Embiid next season, assuming the Kawhi Leonard lesson has been learned.
That means Brand needs to find more suitable reserves at the five spot. While I’m a believer in Jonah Bolden’s long-term upside, he still has some growth left. Daniel Gafford in a capable plug-and-play big whose skill set fits Philadelphia’s style.
At 6-foot-11, Gafford has tremendous length and athleticism. He’s a constant lob-threat, offering the Sixers a legitimate vertical spacer behind Embiid — something that has been lacking in recent seasons. He’s also well-equipped to run the floor in transition, which pairs nicely alongside Ben Simmons.
Gafford can’t shoot, but his base skill set should function in the NBA. He’s also a viable rim protector who, in time, should help the Sixers’ defense not collapse whenever Embiid sits. He will need to cut down on fouls, but has the timing and hops to deter shots inside.