Ranking 5 potential 2024 first-round picks for the Philadelphia 76ers
The Philadelphia 76ers will be on the clock next month in Brooklyn, New York in the 2024 NBA Draft. They currently hold the 16th pick in the event, which, barring a trade, will be the first time they have selected a player in the first round since 2021. Here is a look at five potential players the Sixers could take with the 16th pick.
5. Isaiah Collier
Isaiah Collier would form an intriguing backcourt combination for the 76ers alongside Tyrese Maxey. Collier was efficient from the floor last season at USC, averaging 16.3 points on 49% shooting. His off the ball offense needs work but his scoring combined with his playmaking ability would make him a solid addition for the Sixers and he would slot right into the starting lineup for the Sixers alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey.
4. Zach Edey
One of the biggest problems for the Sixers during the Joel Embiid era has been the team’s lack of center behind their star center. Edey had an exceptional career at Purdue and could provide much needed insurance for Embiid right away. He could also step in at power forward alongside Embiid and create panic for opponents in the paint. The Sixers lack of rebounding ability outside Embiid was a concern in 2024, especially in the postseason, and Edey would allow the team to take a big step forward in that department. With Paul Reed and Mo Bamba’s future in doubt, Edey could play a big role for the Sixers as an instant force in the frontcourt.
3. Tristan Da Silva
Tristan Da Silva is a solid two way player that can shoot the basketball and create turnovers on the defensive end. He averaged just over a steal per game while his blocks per game went up as well in 2024. He shoots the ball from the three point mark which is an area that the Sixers were hot and cold from in 2024. He needs some work in the open court and above the rim which brings his value down a bit, but he would create an enticing defensive tandem with Joel Embiid right away as the Sixers begin their roster overhaul.
2. Tidjane Salaun
Still just 18 years old, Salaun would be a project for the Sixers but he has the potential to be a solid forward in the NBA. He is a scorer that can shoot the ball efficiently from all over the court, however, his shot selection could be cleaned up. The Sixers are not afraid to take a look at guys that need to be developed as evidenced with their selection of Jaden Springer in 2021 and trade for Zhaire Smith in 2018. With that being said, with the increased fan pressure to win now this pick may not be popular amongst fans. However, Salaun’s stock has been rising and he is certainly worth a look at number 16.
1. Jared McCain
If Jared McCain is still available at 16, he would be a great fit for the Sixers. He had a very solid freshman campaign at Duke averaging 14.3 points per game to go along with 5 rebounds and 1.9 assists. His shooting ability was very impressive, especially from three point range where he shot at a rate of 41.4%. He plays physical and his play style allows him to play on or off the ball. His quick release combined with vision makes him a viable third or fourth option offensively. His size limits him defensively but he still averaged over a steal per game which is an indication of that physicality. While the Sixers had nice role players this past season, they often lacked aggressiveness and clutch playmakers. It is not a guarantee that he will still be available at the Sixers position, but if he is he would instantly become a fan favorite in Philadelphia.
After another disappointing campaign, the Sixers will have a lot of work to do in order to make a postseason run next year. Making a good pick in the first round will be a critical first step in building a roster that can compete in the 2024-2025 season and beyond.
