5 2024 NBA Draft prospects 76ers should watch during March Madness

The Philadelphia 76ers’ season is slipping into a disaster. Joel Embiid’s knee injury has kept him out since January 30, and Philly is sliding in the standings. The Sixers are in danger of being in the Play-In Tournament and having a first-round playoff date with the Celtics if they qualify at all. Philadelphia believed they could finally advance to the conference finals this season, but it feels unrealistic now. The 76ers are a flawed team and another quit exit could force changes this summer.

Daryl Morey and the Sixers’ front office have flexibility. Embiid is the only player on a guaranteed contract for the 2024-25 season. The franchise plans to hunt for another star to pair with Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. Who do the 76ers add? There are plenty of hot takes out there, but convincing a difference-maker is never easy.

If Philly goes the three star route, they must nail their draft picks. Having a developing talent on a cheap contract is key to contending under the NBA’s new spending restrictions. The 76ers' recent spell will likely have them picking just outside the lottery, and these talents could significantly alter their stock with an incredible run during the NCAA Tournament.

5. Johnny Furphy

Kansas struggled down the stretch as Kevin McCullar Jr. and Hunter Dickinson missed time. They hoped Furphy would step up, but the 19-year-old struggled to find his footing. The Jayhawks are the fourth seed in the Midwest bracket but will be on upset watch if they cannot get healthy.

Furphy is a 6’9 wing who shot 35.4 percent from 3-point range during his freshman season. He is comfortable spotting up or shooting off the catch. The teenager is still raw but could be the perfect role player on a contending team. He has size, can space the floor, and is comfortable operating without the ball in his hands. Furphy needs time to develop, but he could be fantastic next to Embiid and Maxey in a few years.

The Philadelphia 76ers will have several options if they keep their first-round pick. The 2024 NBA Draft features plenty of uncertainty and much is to be decided. It all depends on what direction the Sixers choose. They could go for offensive upside with Furphy or select one of the best defenders in the NCAA.