Philadelphia 76ers: Ranking every player on the roster (April 2020)
15. Zhaire Smith
PRESEASON RANKING: 8
Before there was Matisse Thybulle, the 76ers had drafted another defensive-oriented guard who just needed to work on the rest of his game: Zhaire Smith.
It was only the 2018 NBA Draft when the Sixers sent Mikal Bridges (who they had just selected with the 10th pick) to Phoenix for Miami’s unprotected 2021 draft pick and Smith, who they selected at No. 16 at the Sixers’ behest.
In what was considered a much deeper draft, Smith was picked four slots ahead of where Thybulle went a year later.
Most know the sad story of Smith’s rookie season, first breaking his foot right after summer league and then suffering a serious allergic reaction to sesame oil that allowed him to play just six games at the end of year.
He seemed to start this year in coach Brett Brown’s developmental doghouse.
Looking for an NBA title, Brown had no interest in what looked like a project and shipped Smith to the Delaware Blue Coats of the G-League. He only averaged 13.5 points for the Blue Coats — nothing special — but Smith could still have a future with the 76ers.
In his 13 career games, Smith has not looked out of place. One could argue that Smith should have been used in the playoffs last year more than some veterans (Jonathan Simmons?). People also forget how young he is. Smith will not turn 21 until June despite two years already as a pro.
He and Thybulle are not the same defensively. Thybulle is more of a gambler, going for steals and blocks while Smith, with his great athletic ability, is a solid on-ball defender. Smith shooting 37.6 percent on three-pointers this season (after a 4-for-18 start) also shows he is progressing in his game.
Some players rise to the level of competition. Smith had his third-year option (unlike Furkan Korkmaz last season) picked up, so count on seeing him in a 76ers uniform next season (whenever that starts) and do not be surprised if he contributes.