Sixers NBA Draft profile: Kira Lewis Jr.

The Sixers could use a speedster of Kira Lewis’ ilk.

Quietly one of the best point guards in college basketball last season, Kira Lewis Jr. has seen his name rise up draft boards all season. Some project him as a lottery pick, while others still have him within range of the Philadelphia 76ers at 21. Either way, he’s a name to watch.

The Sixers should target perimeter depth in this year’s draft. While there are some exceptions to the rule — prospects too good to pass up, regardless of position — Philadelphia should go into draft night thinking guard. Most preferably, point guard.

Lewis is a circle-in-Sharpie kind of prospect. He is an ideal outcome at 21. Beyond the obvious lottery picks who stand no chance of dropping to Philadelphia, Lewis is a premier name, and a player who could drastically improve the Sixers as a rookie.

In his sophomore season, Lewis averaged 18.5 points and 5.2 assists on 45.9 percent shooting. He also grifted his way to 1.8 steals per game, with quick hands to match his quick feet. Lewis is probably the fastest player in the 2020 draft, and speed is something the Sixers desperately need more of.