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Philadelphia 76ers: 4 options at power forward

By Larry Mendte

(Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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(Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images)
(Photo by David Sherman/NBAE via Getty Images) /

4. Justin Patton

Justin Patton is “the other player” included by the Timberwolves in the Jimmy Butler trade. It is the second time he’s held that distinction.

Patton, who was drafted from Creighton University, was the Chicago Bulls’ first round pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, 16th overall. Ironically, the rights to Patton were included when the Bulls traded Jimmy Butler to the Timberwolves on draft night. The seven-footer is now a 76er and theoretically can play power forward — if he plays at all, that is. Patton is recovering from foot surgery and the Timberwolves declined his third-year option before trading him.

Patton will not be available for this year, but if the 76ers choose to keep him around and develop the 21-year-old, they could have a bargain. Before the 2017 draft, NBA scouts were impressed by Patton’s athleticism.

The 76ers have a history of waiting on injured big men to develop. If Justin Patton heals and lives up to his potential, he could be very good NBA player. Just not this year.