The Phifth Quarter staff guesses the Sixers’ #24 pick
We at The Phifth Quarter believe it is our sworn duty and privilege to provide you, the fans, with the dankest Sixers related content possible. In honor of tonight’s NBA Draft, we took a poll through our staff’s Slack channel to figure out who our writers and content creators though would go with the 24th overall pick.
After sending the votes to NASA and cross referencing the results with Harvard’s astrophysics department, I can guarantee these votes have been accurately collated and tabulated to the best degree humanly possible. So without further ado, here are the PQ staff’s predictions on who the Philadelphia 76ers will take in the first round of the draft:
Cameron Johnson SF, North Carolina (7 votes)
After yesterday’s private workout, Johnson is the clear odds on favorite to go at #24 and things aren’t any different here at the Phifth Quarter. Arguably the best three point shooter in this draft class, Johnson fills a major shooting need for the Sixers. He also has great size and a solid defensive profile, which should help him get on the court early as a rookie.
As I’ve mentioned previously, Johnson seems like an obvious choice for the Sixers, but his injury history can’t be ignored. He suffered a season ending injury as a freshman at Pitt then required surgeries to repair a torn meniscus and hip injury while at UNC. All of this is very concerning, especially considering the Sixers’ track record with rookies.
Despite the injuries and advanced age, Johnson can provide one of the most sought after skills in the NBA and could be an immediate contributor. If he’s still on the board at #24, he’ll likely be a Sixer.
Matisse Thybulle SF, Washington (2 votes)
The darling of Sixers’ Twitter only get two votes from the PQ staff, but he could be a serious option if Johnson is taken somewhere in the early twenties.
The reigning PAC-12 Defensive Player of the Year, Thybulle would be an answer to some of the questions that plagued the Sixers’ defense last season. He’s a long athletic wing with active hands on defense. Set the UW single season record for steals. Great anticipation on clogging passing lanes. Smart player with great defensive instincts. His offense is limited, but he does have potential as an off ball shooter.
There are some concerns about Thybulle’s defense, specifically that he played zone in college and wasn’t asked to play on-on-one defense often. He has legit three-and-D potential and could develop into an Andre Robertson-type of role player.
Trades!! (2 votes)
This is always the most exciting option.
We had two separate trade scenarios suggested by our staff. The first, the Sixers trade back into the first round to select Ty Jerome. This is an interesting idea. Although he isn’t a great athlete, Jerome is a smart, pass first point guard who just helped lead Virginia to their first National Championship in school history. Because of his high IQ and three point shot, Jerome should be able to come in and contribute right away as a sixth man and second unit floor general.
The other trade idea would be bringing back a familiar face. The Sixers offer the 24th pick in exchange for Robert Covington. The Timberwolves have apparently discussed Roco in a potential trade with the Pelicans, but you have to wonder if anyone else would be able to pry Covington away from Minnesota. If the Sixers run out of options before they get to #24, this is definitely a route worth looking into.
Grant Williams PF, Tennessee (1 vote)
I’ll give you five guesses to try and figure out who’s the only person on the PQ staff to vote for Grant Williams. Give up? It was me, me, me, me, and me.
I don’t care about the combine. I don’t care about his measurable. And I don’t care about his lack of athleticism. Grant Williams is a baller. Had it not been for a small school prospect named, “Zion Williamson,” Williams would’ve had a legit shot at collegiate player of the year.
Williams is one of the most polished and decorated players in this draft, which is impressive for someone who’s still only 21. He’s smart, crafty and skilled. He’s great in the post, gets to the line often, and can help create for his teammates. Smart defender. Great shot blocker. His size and athleticism will hold him back, but his length and strength should be enough to cover 3-5 at the next level.
Williams is a player that I trust to come in and compete immediately. He’s smart, polished player that still has room to grow. I wouldn’t be surprised if he finds a way to add a consistent three point shot to his game. In terms of upside and readiness, Williams is the best fit for the Sixers at #24, but hey, that’s just my opinion.
A new trainer, so everyone can stop getting sick and hurt (1 vote)
Do I really have to explain it?
