The 11 Biggest mistakes in 76ers' history (and what they should've done instead)

4. Trading up to draft Fultz

The Sixers were putting tanking behind them in 2017. They made an 18-win improvement as Joel Embiid was blossoming into a star. He was limited to just 31 games, but the talent was apparent.

Philly had another high lottery selection thanks to a pick swap with the Kings. Sacramento jumped from eighth to third in the lottery, which meant the Sixers were moving up. They were not happy there. Philadelphia traded up to number one overall a few days before the draft.

The 76ers took Markelle Fultz, but he lasted less than two seasons with the franchise. He played just 33 games and dealt with a host of issues. This turned into a disaster for Philly, especially because the Celtics selected Jayson Tatum and got the Sixers 2019 first-rounder in the trade.

It was a questionable fit from the moment they picked him because Fultz had an inconsistent jumper. There was no questioning his upside, but there was significant downside in selecting him. Taking him forced Philadelphia to miss on an unquestioned star.

The 76ers should have selected Donovan Mitchell

Boston was taking Tatum at first or third overall. The Sixers were not trading up to select him, but Donovan Mitchell did not go until 13th. He averaged over 20 points per game as a rookie and has made five straight All-Star appearances. Mitchell was quickly a star as Fultz has never blossomed into a game-changer.

Mitchell was not the only missed opportunity in this class. De’Aaron Fox, Bam Adebayo, Jarrett Allen, Lauri Markkanen, Derrick White, and OG Anunoby were all still on the board. They weren’t taking another big man, but the others would be fantastic fits next to Joel Embiid. This was a massive missed opportunity that was compounded by trading up to number one overall.