As expected, the Sixers opened this year’s draft by taking LSU’s Ben Simmons. The 6’10” Australian native, who has been the consensus No. 1 choice since the beginning of the college season, averaged 19.2 points, 11.8 rebounds and 4.8 assists during his lone season with the Tigers.
After landing the top pick in last month’s lottery, Philadelphia was reportedly deciding between Simmons and Duke forward Brandon Ingram. On Tuesday, the Sixers informed Simmons that he would be their choice.
Simmons is the latest in a string of big men drafted early by the Sixers. He joins a crowded frontcourt that includes Jahlil Okafor, Nerlens Noel, Joel Embiid and maybe Croatian star Dario Saric. Philadelphia is reportedly trying to package Noel and its selections at Nos. 24 and 26 to obtain a top-eight pick.
Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports Images.
ESPN says Philly offered Boston Covington, Noel, #24 and #26 for the #3. Thoughts?
Boston didn’t want all those picks. Not a terrible deal but I’m sure the extra pick was a slight turn off considering they’re trying to get rid of picks.
Celtics were right not to take it.and I’m a 6er fan.but from the Celtics perspective,any conversations for 3 would’ve started with either Noel or Okafor and the top 3 protected Lakers pick next year.they were in a position of power.playoff team,9 players under contract,2 rfas,2 team options,8 draft picks (atleast 1 pick in every set of 10/1-10,11-20 etc.),only real key ufa is Evan Turner.they have no need for extra immediate assets.without offering future picks,they had no reason to really talk.they had plenty of ways to aquire frontcourt help.our options for a pg are limited,and also Teague,Hill and Rose are already off the table.
Floored…..