4. Matisse Thybulle
Christopher Kline of The Sixer Sense had Matisse Thybulle re-drafted at the 16th spot in the 2019 NBA draft, versus him originally going at the 20th spot when the Philadelphia 76ers traded for his draft rights. I tend to disagree with Kline’s take as I view him as a top-5 talent in his draft class.
Entering his third season, Thybulle is an elite wing defender who made an All-Defensive team despite coming off the bench last season. If he adds a 3-point shot to his game, he’d be one of the best 3-and-D players in the league. For his career, he’s averaged 4.3 points, 1.5 steals, and 0.9 blocks.
“…Maxey should have full range of the offense this year.”
3. Tyrese Maxey
It might be controversial to have a second-year player at number three on this list, but Tyrese Maxey‘s upside is that of an All-Star level player. He was the 21st pick of the 2020 NBA Draft and it’s clear he is at least a lottery talent, if not a top-10 talent. Kline had Maxey re-drafted at the 11th spot which is a solid choice.
Maxey can already finish inside the paint at an elite level with his floater and has been improving as a 3-point shooter and defender throughout his rookie season. Outside of those things, he still needs to improve his playmaking and being able to get to the foul line more. Last season, he averaged 8.0 points and 2.0 assists. However, with Simmons on his way out, Maxey should have full range of the offense this year.