Mar 12, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights guard Ace Bailey (4) goes to the basket against USC Trojans forward Saint Thomas (0) during the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
Dallas Mavericks jump up to No. 1 for first time, gain right to select Duke's Cooper Flagg
They didn't win the lottery, but for the Sixers, Monday night was still a success.
That's because they didn't lose the pick by falling out of the top six - which would have been a disaster. Instead, the Sixers, who had the fifth-best odds to win the lottery, moved up two spots and will select No. 3 overall.
The Dallas Mavericks won the lottery. The San Antonio Spurs will pick second.
While the Sixers won't be able to select consensus No. 1 pick Cooper Flagg from Duke, they will still be able to get a top-tier prospect who can immediately contribute to their championship aspirations alongside Joel Embiid, Paul George, and Tyrese Maxey.
With the draft scheduled for June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, the Sixers' front office, led by President Daryl Morey, will evaluate several elite prospects to determine the best fit for the team's future.
Dylan Harper (PG/SG, Rutgers)
Harper, a dynamic 6-foot-5-inch guard, is renowned for his playmaking abilities and scoring versatility. Averaging 18.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, he has demonstrated the capacity to lead an offense and create opportunities for teammates. His basketball IQ and court vision make him a compelling option to enhance the Sixers' backcourt depth.
@RutgersMBB Dylan Harper is a ridiculous offensive talent, maybe the best in the NBA Draft. Hate to say he’s a more athletic Cade Cunningham but I’ve seen Cade since he was 15. Dylan may be. He’ll be 19 most of his rookie season! @coach_paint pic.twitter.com/0MmC6C3erJ
Ace Bailey (SF, Rutgers)
Bailey, Harper's teammate with the Scarlet Knights, is a 6-foot-9 forward with exceptional athleticism, and offers a blend of defensive prowess and offensive versatility. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on both ends of the floor could provide the Sixers with a valuable two-way player. Bailey's potential to develop into a reliable scorer complements the team's existing core. Most evaluators believe Harper and Bailey will go back-to-back at picks No. 2 and 3.
Ace Bailey to Philadelphia ? pic.twitter.com/vLD9f2I2gx
V.J. Edgecombe (SG, Baylor)
Edgecombe, standing at 6-foot-5, is known for his explosive athleticism and defensive tenacity. Averaging 17.8 points and 2.1 steals per game, his energy and perimeter defense could bolster the Sixers' wing rotation. Edgecombe's high motor and commitment to defense align with the team's emphasis on two-way players.
VJ Edgecombe is the most explosive athlete in this class, but shows quite a bit of skill as well. He's an event-creator defensively who hit 39% of his 3s in Big 12 play with improving shot-creation and passing prowess that bodes well for his long-term development. pic.twitter.com/aIwf9EGLS4
Khaman Maluach (C, Duke)
Maluach, a 7'1" center with a 9'8" standing reach, presents a formidable presence in the paint. His shot-blocking ability and rebounding skills could provide the Sixers with a strong defensive anchor when Embiid is off the court. Maluach's potential to develop offensively adds intrigue to his profile.
Khaman Maluach’s tools (7’5 WS + 9’8 standing reach) make him one of the most daunting NBA prospects in recent memory.
Pair those tools w/ his rim touch, it’s no surprise why he’s one of the most efficient big men ever: 77.6% rim FG + 99th %-ile scoring as P&R roller (1.76 PPP). pic.twitter.com/NCOs4DEcza
The Sixers' selection at No. 3 will depend on the availability of these prospects and how they fit within the team's system. With Embiid and Maxey as foundational pieces, adding a versatile wing or a dynamic guard could enhance the team's offensive and defensive capabilities. Alternatively, selecting a promising big man like Maluach could provide valuable depth and future insurance in the frontcourt.
