Philadelphia 76ers 2019 NBA Draft Guide
Potential options at No. 24
The Sixers hold the 24th overall pick, marking their lone first-round pick in the 2019 NBA Draft. While the bench as a whole needs a facelift, one should expect perimeter depth — most likely in the 3-and-D mold — to be a priority for Elton Brand and the front office.
Unlike the 2018 NBA Draft, which was loaded with top-tier talent in the lottery, 2019 is a far more balanced class. There’s only one generational talent in Zion Williamson, but the mid-to-late first round is wide open. The Sixers will have several names to consider.
Matisse Thybulle, Washington (DRAFT PROFILE)
The anchor in Washington’s zone defense, Thybulle averaged 3.5 steals and 2.2 blocks per game as a senior. He’s one of the best defensive prospects in the draft, standing 6-foot-5 with a 7-foot wingspan and quality athleticism.
Due to his length and instincts, Thybulle would be an immediate impact defender in the second unit. He has the tools to defend multiple positions in the Sixers’ switch-heavy scheme, but also projects as a solid on-ball defender — something Philadelphia has lacked in years prior.
He’s a potential favorite to go 24, as some speculate the Sixers have given Thybulle a promise.
Ty Jerome, Virginia (DRAFT PROFILE)
Our pick in the 2019 FanSided experts mock draft, Jerome would fill a void on the perimeter. He’s one of the best individual shooters in the draft, whether it’s spotting up, curling around screens or in pull-up situations. He’s a low-level athlete, but possesses a tremendous basketball I.Q. and an intriguing skill set at either guard spot. The Sixers are equipped to mask his athletic limitations.
Keldon Johnson, Kentucky
A five-star recruit who plays with intensity on both ends, Johnson put together a solid freshman campaign in Lexington. He lacks the defining talent of other high-profile prospects, but his three-point stoke projects well and his defense should come around in the NBA. He fits the 3-and-D mold.
Kevin Porter Jr., USC (DRAFT PROFILE)
Porter is a top-10 talent in this class. He missed time to both injury and suspension at USC, leaving concerns about his attitude and off-court habits. Even so, his shot creation prowess offers a clear NBA skill and a path toward upper-echelon production. He uses crossovers, hesitations and stepbacks to shed defenders and generate space. He has the makings of a dynamic three-level scorer.
KZ Okpala, Stanford
With ideal athletic tools for a modern forward, Okpala’s upside is bound to tantalize at least one team. He needs to develop his offensive repertoire beyond spot-up shooting, but there are flashes. Those flashes show up on defense as well, where he has the potential defend across the positional spectrum and disrupt opponents with his length and burst.
Luguentz Dort, Arizona State (DRAFT PROFILE)
Despite flawed production as a freshman, Luguentz Dort rocketed into the first round discussion due to his freight-train build and potential as a secondary creator. He’s an aggressive slasher who relentlessly attacks the rim and searches for contact, but needs to iron out his touch. The same goes for his jumper. He’s also a promising defense due to his strength and explosiveness on the wing.
Bol Bol, Oregon (DRAFT PROFILE)
If Elton Brand wants to get spicy, there’s a chance Bol Bol tumbles to 24. He’s a potential top-five talent in terms of peak outcome, but serious concerns about injuries, frame and work ethic are dragging Bol down. He’s still 7-foot-3 and splashes pull-up threes, so there’s natural intrigue.