Ranking the Sixers’ young core against every NBA team

Ranking every NBA young core — 14. Orlando Magic

• Jonathan Isaac, Jalen Suggs, Markelle Fultz, Cole Anthony, Wendell Carter Jr., Franz Wagner, Mo Bamba, R.J. Hampton, Chuma Okeke, Moritz Wagner, Ignas Brazdeikis, Devin Cannady

The Magic don’t have the same top-end talent as other teams in this range, but frankly — every player on this list, aside from Ignas Brazdeikis and Devin Cannady, has a real future in the NBA. Maybe even a bright future. Jonathan Isaac is a defensive wizard when he’s healthy. Markelle Fultz displayed aspects of what made him the No. 1 pick before his ACL tear. He’s the starting point guard upon his return.

No name on this list, however, is bigger than Jalen Suggs. His fall to No. 5 was a major stroke of luck for Orlando, a franchise long in need of a perimeter star. Suggs is the No. 1 pick some years, and should contribute significantly as a rookie. He’s a natural born leader and a dynamic two-way player.

Franz Wanger was a top-8 pick. Cole Anthony was a top-15 pick, and probably fell too far. Wendell Carter Jr. and Mo Bamba were lottery picks. In the case of Chuma Okeke, injury kept him outside the lottery, but he’s already a hyper-versatile defender with real offensive equity. R.J. Hampton showed up midseason and put up big numbers. It’s simply an expansive collection of good players, at least some of whom are bound to hit.

Ranking every NBA young core — 13. Charlotte Hornets

• LaMelo Ball, P.J. Washington, Miles Bridges, Kelly Oubre Jr., Kai Jones, James Bouknight, Jalen McDaniels, Cody Martin, Scottie Lewis, Vernon Carey Jr., Nick Richards, Nate Darling, JT Thor, Arnoldas Kulboka

LaMelo Ball is already a sensation. His high basketball I.Q., mixed with a playfulness and flair unique to the NBA’s truly great stars, will make him must-watch T.V. for years to come. He’s also the perfect young player to build a team around. He makes everyone better, thus elevating Charlotte on this list.

P.J. Washington has developed into an excellent two-way player, with consistent 3-point range and a knack for defensive playmaking. He has also become a pretty reliable scorer in the post, using his strength to overpower weaker defenders at the rim. When playing the five, he can beat slower bigs with his speed.

Kai Jones and James Bouknight were both top-10 prospects in my book. Kelly Oubre Jr. is in line for a redemptive season. JT Thor was a first-round talent selected in the second round. Charlotte has a fun group.