Sixers NBA Draft profile: Kira Lewis Jr.

Strengths

Lewis is a delightful watch. He’s fun, and at the end of the day, we watch basketball to have fun. Lewis improves the viewing experience, and more likely than not, he will improve his team at the next level. Again, Philadelphia should strongly consider being that team.

At the core of Lewis’ success is his speed. He plays with a frenetic, lightning-touched pace, and does so to his advantage. He blends long, fluid strides with short, choppy, hesitation-laced steps, using rapid changes in speed and direction to shake his defender.

Lewis can put constant pressure on the rim with an elite first step. He can also create from scratch on the perimeter, with compact shot mechanics and NBA range. All the hallmarks of a star guard — explosive athleticism, pick-and-roll dynamism, shot-making ability — reside in Lewis. If he can tap into it all on a consistent basis, expect big things.

As both a scorer and a passer, Lewis can shred defenses in the pick-and-roll. His speed glistens in the halfcourt, but he’s also great in transition, where he can push the tempo. Flank him with shooters and the results are typically positive.

On defense, Lewis shows flashes on the ball. He’s quick and slender, comfortably gliding over screens to stay in front of his man. Quick hands also yield plenty of steals, which in turn create opportunities in transition, where again, Lewis thrives.

He is one of the most well-rounded point guards in this draft, and firmly a top-10 prospect in my book.