NBA Draft: Grading the Philadelphia 76ers’ last 10 first rounds

2014

The moves: Drafted Joel Embiid, traded for Dario Saric

Joel Embiid

Now, these picks were the epitome of “The Process”. Obviously, we all know that the Philadelphia 76ers infamously drafted Joel Embiid knowing that he had been sidelined with a back injury. However, Embiid was seen as the consensus number one overall pick at the time. Some even heralded Embiid as the next Hakeem Olajuwon. In many ways, he is. Embiid has some of the best footwork in the NBA. Watching him hit the “Dream Shake” on opposing players or hitting a three from the top of the key is unprecedented for a player of his size.

But, Embiid would ultimately be sidelined for another two seasons, as he could not fully recover from a stress fracture in his foot. So, people began to worry about his health. However, once Embiid returned in 2016, he did not disappoint (until he got hurt again). In his first four seasons with the Sixers, Embiid has averaged 24.1 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks per game.

Embiid has been the best player in this class. The only real downside has been his inability to stay fully healthy. Hopefully, the Sixers can find a way to stagger his minutes so that Embiid’s longevity isn’t compromised. Simply put, he’s a joy to watch.

Grade: A+

Dario Saric

Now, Dario Saric has a specially place in many Sixers’ fans hearts. So much so that the fans began calling him “The Homie”. Now, the Sixers traded for the rights to draft Saric from the Orlando Magic essentially in exchange for Elfrid Payton. However, Saric had a commitment with Anadolu Efes S.K. that he had to honor. As such, Saric did not come over right away.

Saric came into the league after two years of playing overseas. While his game was a little stiff and awkward, Sixers fans fell in love with Dario Saric immediately. During his tenure in Philadelphia, Saric averaged 13.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. He garnered the appreciation of fans because he simply played hard every time he stepped on the court.

Ultimately, Saric and Robert Covington would be dealt to the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2018 in exchange for Jimmy Butler. But overall, Saric turned out to be a solid investment for the Sixers, as they were able to rebuild the franchise with him. On top of that, he was part of a deal that helped bring in an upper-echelon player to the franchise. What more could you ask for? (Other than for Jimmy not to leave).

Grade: A+