The draft was eventful for the Sixers, needless to say. At the draft’s opening, they had the rights to their own (16th overall) and the LA Clippers’ (14th overall) first round picks, through the departure of Michael Carter-Williams. Leading to the draft, there was much speculation regarding their targets. As their projected 2017/18 roster appeared to be as young as it was the previous season, pundits were unable to come to a consensus about which strategy they would take. The only prevailing theory was that they would look to the backcourt with Deron Williams set to test the market. However, with the likes of Cameron Payne and Terry Rozier projected to be off the board relatively early, the Sixers did not seem willing to trade up to round out their young dynamic future. Low and behold, the third pick went by and both were off the board. Though as the draft continued, the front office became uneasy as their true target fell closer and closer to their position. Suddenly in a fit of desperation, they made a move that still has some critics scratching their heads as they traded up from 14th to 9th in order to acquire 32 year old Brazilian point guard, Marcelo Huertas. Though Huertas is known to be more than capable of handling an offense, his defense has been criticized. Furthermore, already at 32 years of age, some wondered how many effective seasons he would have left to compete at a high level. Though he undeniably has a strong, established skill set, experts projected him to fall much later in the draft due to his age and lack of defensive ability. Therefore, you can’t help but wonder if it trading up those five spots was even necessary to acquire Huertas, even if that was their plan all along.
While projected to be a difference maker immediately as floor general on the offensive side of the ball, some question Philly’s willingness to trade up for a 32 year old, let alone one that doesn’t project highly defensively.
Six picks and the 2019 LA Clippers’ first round pick later, the Sixers’ plan began to become a little clearer, as they continued to draft international experience with the selection of the 30 year old Russian center, Sasha Kaun. Kaun, like Huertas, projects to be more of an offensive asset. At 6’11” 260 lbs, the well sized center should be able to help out in front court scoring, which should add another dimension to the Sixers’ gameplan as their current rotation of Noel/Adams/Payne/Sullinger is one that could be seen as more defensive minded. Coupled with the Huertas pick, it appears that Philly has revealed their aggressive strategy to compete now rather than fall back into obscurity.
Kaun looks to bring his international experience and offensive presence to make the Sixers more of a force in the paint.
Now this is where things get interesting. With the acquisition of Huertas and Kaun, not only did Philadelphia attain two ready now players with difference maker impact potential, but since they added them through the draft, the Sixers’ cap space situation becomes much friendlier. With the expiration of Deron Williams’ $22.3 mm contract, the Sixers suddenly became players in the free agency market with a relatively established roster. Following the drafting of Huertas and Kaun, it appears that the lineup doesn’t have any glaring holes. That being said, even more mystery surrounds what their plan is for the upcoming free agency period. Even standing pat following free agency may prove to be a prudent move, as Nerlens Noel (22 years old) enters restricted free agency with Jabari Parker (21 years old), James Young (21 years old), and Adreian Payne (24 years old) to follow next season. Giving themselves this sizable cap flexibility may have been the wisest move Philly could have done this offseason.
With their young core set to test free agency (headed by Nerlens Noel (pictured) this offseason), it may have been a smart move to conduct their business frugally to allow for the franchise to retain their young talent, if they decide to choose that direction.
At first glance, it appears that the Sixers have set themselves in a good position to establish a winning culture in Philadelphia, at least prior to their free agency activity. Though it may prove to be a convoluted risk that crashes and burns in the long run, you can’t help but appreciate the franchise’s willingness to compete coupled with the novelty of their cap minded business model.
