Sixers Draft: 3 shooting guard prospects to consider with 23rd pick

Trevor Keels, Duke

He’s 6-foot-4 and built like an NFL linebacker. Trevor Keels‘ broad shoulders and thick build have translated to some tantalizing flashes on the defensive end. He has the hard-nosed mentality Philadelphia is looking for, with the versatility to defend across positions due to his 221-pound frame. That should immediately place him on the Sixers’ radar.

Offensively, it’s more of the same. He’s an excellent passer who plays within himself and looks to set up teammates. He doesn’t need to dominate the ball and he’s well prepared to spend time slashing off of passes from Harden or Embiid. The jumper is a work in progress, but Keels can bulldoze his way to the rim for two points (and he’s more than willing to embrace contact) or drive and kick.

The 3-pointer (and jumper in general) will be Keels’ big swing skill. Obviously the Sixers can never have too many shooters, but frankly, the second unit has plenty of reliable spacers right now. Keels can feign competency from deep at least, and he has all the necessary ancillary skills to contribute off the ball. Doc Rivers’ main barometer for playing young guys is defense, and Keels should translate right away on that side of the ball.

A spark-plug personality who flies around the court on defense and who flies up the court in transition, there’s a lot to like about Keels as a potential reserve behind Matisse Thybulle on the wing. He has NBA-ready talent and athleticism, with enough shooting upside to be worthy of consideration at 23.