3. Josh Green, Arizona
PROJECTED DRAFT RANGE: 15-30
POSITION ON BIG BOARD: 18
Maybe the best pure athlete in this year’s class, Josh Green is sure to garner a lot of attention outside the lottery. There are questions about his skill set offensively, but he’s a gutsy defender and has a high ceiling tied directly to his elite-level athleticism.
Green is 6-foot-6 with an impressive 6-foot-11 wingspan. He can defend multiple positions, and he can occupy multiple roles on that side of the floor. His tools make for a great free safety — someone who can explode into passing lanes, sneak in for weak-side blocks, and cover a lot of ground. He’s also a strong presence on-ball, and can handle the NBA’s most athletically dominant wings.
The Sixers like 3-and-D wings, with a heavy emphasis on the D. Green falls directly into that category. He’s not a great shooter, and some doubt his ability to shoot at a high volume, but his mechanics aren’t broken. He should develop into a useful spot-up shooter, if nothing else.
In addition to his three-point shot, Green has great upside as a cutter and a slasher. He can explode to the rim, and he’s comfortable finishing up top when presented with the opportunity. Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons are great at finding cutters, so having one on the roster isn’t the worst idea.
Expect Green to hover on the Sixers’ radar all summer.