Sixers Free Agency Targets Revised Following Latest Revelation
By Simon Smith
Starting Point Guard
The Sixers appear set to becoming a significant player in the leagues upcoming free-agency period.
A combination of an exciting young nucleus and substantial salary cap space means the Sixers are suddenly both an attractive and viable option for some of the big names coming out of contract.
Recent comments from head coach Brett Brown gave an early indication as to the direction the Sixers will be heading this summer. When commentating on the outlook of the team from next season, Brown noted the following on Simmons becoming the Sixers’ starting point guard:
"“I feel that the team has to try that immediately. In my eyes, we are going to try that. I feel that it’s something that I doubt you say, ‘That didn’t work,’ and you just move on quickly. There has to be a body of work that you judge him on.”"
On these comments alone, it appears that when healthy, Simmons is going to be immediately thrust into the role as the Sixers’ starting point guard. In essence, this would mean the Sixers have three starting slots filled for the opening game next season.
Philadelphia 76ers
Simmons at the point, Embiid at the center spot and Saric at the 4 would appear to be near certainties assuming they’re all fit and healthy.
Therefore, the shooting guard and small forward spots would appear to be of the highest priority for the Sixers come this offseason. This could initially be targeted via the draft, where the Sixers have a number of options thanks to the fine work undertaken during the Sam Hinkie era.
The predecessor to the Sixers’ current president of basketball operations, Bryan Colangelo, Hinkie accumulated a multitude of assets that are going to be realised over the coming years.
This year’s draft will see the Sixers having the option to use their own first-round pick or make a pick swap with the Sacramento Kings, courtesy of a previous transaction between the teams.
The Sixers will also receive the Los Angeles Lakers’ first-round pick if it does not fall within the top three picks in the draft. And thanks to a recent trade deadline deal, the Sixers will own the Dallas Mavericks’ first-round pick if it falls between 19 and 30 in the draft order.
In all likelihood, the Sixers’ draft picks will be used on players which the team can help nurture and develop for years down the road.
But it’s in free agency where the on-court production will be shaped the most.