Tier 3
Bol Bol, Luguentz Dort, Chuma Okeke, Cameron Johnson, Talen Horton-Tucker
I’m generally against the Sixers targeting a center at 24. The bench needs perimeter depth more, even after the Joel Embiid backup conundrum in the playoffs. The Sixers should also have several valuable center options available in the second round, whether it’s 33/34 or 42.
Bol Bol gets the nod, however, due to his immense upside. He’s too much of a project for my liking and the health concerns are close to deal-breaking. But he’s 7-foot-3, has unnatural touch and boasts range well beyond the NBA three-point line. There’s weird, funky and unicorn-esque potential brewing there.
Chuma Okeke also falls into the injury boat after tearing his ACL in the Sweet 16. If the Sixers are looking for immediate contributors — which, in the presently wide-open NBA, makes the most sense — waiting on Okeke at the 33 spot might make more sense.
If the Sixers don’t have confidence in Okeke sliding to 33, though, he’s still worth a look. Smart 6-foot-8 defenders who can guard switches, disrupt passing lanes and make high-I.Q. decisions have tremendous value. He also shoots a smooth three ball.
Luguentz Dort is a linebacker whose physical tools pop on screen upon first glance. He has some impressive moments, whether it’s exploding for a transition dunk or intercepting a pass above the break at the top of his leap.
On tools alone, Dort should have some intrigue at 24. There’s also a chance he’s available at 33. His finishing needs to improve, but Dort does a solid a good job getting downhill and drawing contact. His jumper is a swing skill.
In Cameron Johnson, the Sixers would get arguably the draft’s best shooter. At 6-foot-8, there’s inherent value there. 3-and-D wings are all the rage and Johnson fits the first category with flying colors.
For various reasons — questionable defense, health red flags and a thin frame — I’m less confident in Johnson’s current projection than some. But an elite spot-up shooter who relocates and cuts as well as Johnson should bring immediate value in the NBA.
As for Talen Horton-Tucker, my thoughts are more complicated. He’s really not a good player yet, and the Sixers don’t need projects. But at 6-foot-4, his bulky frame and 7-foot-1 wingspan offer unique defensive upside. He’s also a dynamic ball handler who can generate space and create his own offense.
Defensive awareness, decision making and shooting consistency are all pressing concerns for THT. He’s more raw talent and tools than finished product. But if everything coalesces, Horton-Tucker has the potential to defend up and down the positional spectrum while getting buckets on the wing. There’s a good chance he’s available at 33.