The Philadelphia 76ers will look to add another impact player to the rotation in the 2021 NBA draft, hoping to find a diamond in the rough with the 28th overall pick. They found such a player at No. 21 in the 2020 draft, Tyrese Maxey.
Ideally, Philadelphia would probably like to add somebody who can create their own shot from the perimeter while being able to play defense on the other end. However, they should also look at a backup big man who can knock down a jumper as well.
In a mock draft performed by CBS Sports, the Sixers select Virginia forward Trey Murphy III:
It’s plausible, now, that Murphy goes in the first round. This was unthinkable a year ago and NEARLY unthinkable five months ago. From Rice to Virginia to the NBA. Fascinating path, all the more so because he wasn’t declared eligible until right at the start of last season. Murphy was one of only two players to shoot 50/40/90 last season. For the uninitiated, that’s the coveted club of players that make at least 50% of their total field goals, 40% of 3-point attempts and 90% of free throws. I have to put a top-30 assessment on a player like that, all the more when you factor in his length and perimeter defense proficiency. This is a good draft night story.
Murphy III had a really promising season with the Cavaliers in the ACC. Going from Rice to Virginia is a challenge for anybody with the step up in competition, but he handled it well. He averaged 11.3 points and he shot 43.3% from deep in the one season at Virginia and he would be a nice addition to the Sixers who are in need of another backup big man at the moment.
This post originally appeared on Sixers Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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