Report: The Sixers know who they'd take with the No. 1 overall pick
The Philadelphia 76ers have a difficult choice to make with the No. 1 overall pick on June 23.
Ben Simmons and Brandon Ingram each have a strong case to go first, and the Sixers theoretically have a need for both.
According to Philadelphia Magazine, Sixers president of basketball operations Bryan Colangelo told Howard Eskin on 94 WIP that the Sixers know who they'd take with the first pick if the draft were held today:
Their decision is subject to change, obviously, as Colangelo admitted. Health, interviews, attitude, work ethic, background information, workouts and a plethora of other factors could sway the Sixers:
Philadelphia Magazine reported over the weekend that the Sixers are leaning towards Simmons, which makes sense on the surface.
At the same time, Simmons could be a risky pick for a franchise that has sold its fan base on potential and the future over the past few seasons without much to show for -- but only if he doesn't pan out.
On paper, he's the most talented player in the draft and undoubtedly has the highest ceiling. It's just a matter of if he ever actualizes that potential, and how exactly he'll fit in the league if he's unable to develop his jumper (it's unlikely, but possible).
Ingram, on the other hand, fills more of a pressing need (an elite 3-and-D wing) and fits in with the modern NBA, which emphasizes perimeter play, floor-spacing forwards and defensive versatility. He's the safer pick, which could appeal to a Sixers franchise craving a modicum of stability.
Every indication I get is #sixers have strong preference for Ben Simmons. Still 4 weeks away, but would set him as heavy favorite.
— Derek Bodner (@DerekBodnerNBA) May 28, 2016
It's hard to go wrong either way, and it'll be interesting to see if the Sixers have a change of heart as the draft approaches.
