Per HoopsHype's draft workout tracker, Dailyn Swain is one of six frontcourt prospects who have taken part in a workout with the Philadelphia 76ers ahead of the 2026 NBA Draft. It is clear that the front office believes forward depth is needed for the Sixers, and Swain is arguably the highlight name on the list of attendees. With Paul George expected to stay with the franchise, the former Texas wing would have the opportunity to learn from a nine-time All-Star.
Paul George's career is swiftly coming to an end
After two years of asking, Paul George has finally shown the 76ers what his true capabilities are as the third offensive option on the floor. Throughout Philadelphia's playoff run, George averaged 16.4 points, 3.9 rebounds, and three assists, while shooting 45.8 percent from the floor and 49.3 percent from deep.
Throughout his 11 postseason appearances, the 35-year-old displayed every attribute that Philadelphia has craved for countless years. However, the reality is that Father Time waits for no man, and the 76ers would benefit more from proactively finding George's replacement before it is too late.
Utilizing free agency to acquire a veteran presence would have its benefits, but it would only paper over cracks that could lead to catastrophic results down the line.
Drafting a player with a similar profile to George would be a masterstroke from Mike Gansey. Not only because the player should seamlessly transition into Nick Nurse's blueprint, but because the experienced forward can help mould a rookie into the weapon that Philadelphia needs.
Dailyn Swain could be the perfect fit under George's tutelage
While Dailyn Swain may not currently hold the same reputation as a superstar like Paul George, his skill set coming out of college is about as close as the 76ers are going to get to this status with the 22nd overall pick in the 2026 draft.
Swain is a two-way presence who boasts impressive athleticism, defensive and offensive versatility, and rebounding ability. During his junior year at Texas, the 20-year-old registered 17.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 54.2 percent from the floor.
If the 76ers select Dailyn Swain with their first-round pick, there is a reason he is falling so far -- he is far from the complete package. His decision-making offensively could use some work, and his shooting from deep will have to improve if he wishes to establish himself as a prominent member of Philadelphia's rotation. However, this has to be expected of a rookie who is not a lottery selection.
In the past, we have seen less sought-after prospects develop at an unforeseen rate. The reason? Good coaching and an experienced veteran who is willing to provide his younger counterpart with the vast knowledge he has gathered throughout his career. Paul George can be this mentor for Dailyn Swain.
VJ Edgecombe has discussed the role that George played throughout his spectacular rookie year. It is obvious that George is a good leader to have in the dressing room, but in Swain's case, it should not just be the knowledge that he absorbs; it should be every small detail that the 76ers' star forward puts into his training schedule.
Swain can't be afraid to ask questions. What does he eat? How does he train? How has he altered his shot mechanics over the years? How tight does he tie his shoelaces? The Texas forward should leave no stone unturned in his pursuit of greatness.
Nobody truly knows how long George will remain on this roster, and given that Swain has shown similar traits to a younger Paul George, he should take advantage of having an established star as a teammate.
If Dailyn Swain's workout went to plan, then the Philadelphia 76ers will surely have him at the top of their draft night priorities. From a tactical standpoint, the rookie appears to be the exact profile of forward that the Sixers require. However, on a personal level, Swain will have an opportunity to work alongside a player who could help him accelerate his development. Paul George would be the perfect mentor for the Texas graduate.
Add us as a preferred source on Google