Sixers: Ranking every bench player in order of importance

1 of 8

(Photo by Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images) /

The Sixers‘ offseason has reached an impasse. Until the Ben Simmons trade does (or doesn’t) play out, there’s not much Daryl Morey can do. Philadelphia has all 15 roster spots filled, with the notable caveat that Anthony Tolliver’s contract is non-guaranteed. The Sixers could seek another minimum contract candidate, or give that spot to second-round pick Charles Bassey.

Either way, there’s very little room for meaningful change unless Morey makes a truly foundation-shaking trade. That trade would almost have to include Simmons, who clearly wants no part of Philadelphia next season. Beyond that, there’s no clear trade candidate. Morey is an innovative and ambitious GM, so rule nothing out, but the Sixers will likely exercise patience until the Simmons saga unfolds.

With that said, we have a pretty good feel for how the second unit will look in 2020-21 (unless, of course, Simmons gets traded). For now, this article will rank the bench pieces in order of importance, with the potential for an update if a major trade takes place in the not-too-distant future. Let us assume the Sixers’ five starters are Joel Embiid, Tobias Harris, Danny Green, Seth Curry, Ben Simmons.

Ranking every Sixers bench player — 12. Rayjon Tucker

The Sixers re-signed Rayjon Tucker to another two-way contract. He’s a human highlight reel, with elite-level athleticism on the wing. He has shown flashes in the NBA, and even more notably in the G-League. That said, he won’t see the floor very often next season.

Ranking every Sixers bench player — 11. Aaron Henry

Aaron Henry was one of the best perimeter defenders in college basketball last season. He’s a brick wall at the point of attack, using his strong frame and long arms to stifle ball-handlers. His 3-point shot is a work in progress, but he plays with a high-I.Q. and is never lacking in the effort department.

Ranking every Sixers bench player — 10. Charles Bassey

Let’s assume, for now, that Tolliver gets waived in favor of Bassey, who the Sixers selected 53rd overall in last month’s draft. Not many rookie bigs are more physically imposing than Bassey, who can no doubt block shots and rebound with NBA athletes. If his 3-point flashes are real, there’s backup center potential long term.