Philadelphia 76ers 2020 NBA Draft profile: Killian Tillie

Fit with the Sixers

The Sixers have frontcourt talent to spare with Joel Embiid, Al Horford, Tobias Harris, and even Ben Simmons. Not to mention newcomer Norvel Pelle and oldcomer Mike Scott. But the Sixers could still use some insurance at the five spot once Kyle O’Quinn inevitably walks this summer.

Tillie’s appeal is rooted foremost in his skill. He can space the floor, he can play behind or next to Joel Embiid, and he’s a ball-mover — all things Brett Brown is sure to appreciate. On defense, he’s smart beyond his years and should quickly adjust to the speed of NBA basketball, if not necessarily the physicality.

Another added benefit for the Sixers, however, is their five second-round picks. They can afford to take risks on someone like Tillie, who may never play basketball. Even if Tillie flops, the Sixers will have multiple other picks to spend on safer options.

I’m of the opinion Philadelphia should target Tillie precisely for that reason. Again, he’s top-25 on my personal board. He’s a gifted player who brings a lot to the floor, even on a team already saddled with frontcourt talent. He’s a high-risk, high-reward gamble in a part of the draft when the risk isn’t really that high.