The Sixers’ need for more playmakers is the worst kept secret in basketball. While Ben Simmons is a delightful point guard and an immaculate basketball talent, it’s difficult to truly contend if he’s the only person who can handle the ball and create for others. Enter Tre Jones.
While not the most exciting pick, Jones checks a lot of boxes for Philadelphia. He’s smart, he doesn’t turn the ball over, and he’s thoroughly unselfish. He can slide into Brett Brown’s rotation as a ball-mover and a spot-up shooter, as well as someone who can liven up the halfcourt offense. Whether in pick-and-rolls or DHOs, Jones has the ability to generate easy looks that are otherwise hard to come by.
Philadelphia also values defense, and Jones was one of college basketball’s most acclaimed defenders. He has limitations as an athlete and will probably only defend one position, but he’s tenacious at the point of attack and highly adept at turning the ball over. He’s a natural pick for this front office, even if he can both dribble and shoot.