2012 NBA Draft Grades: Philadelphia 76ers Receive 'B'

The Philadelphia 76ers used their first-round pick in Thursday night's 2012 NBA Draft to select Moe Harkless, traded for another first-rounder to choose Arnett Moultrie (No. 27 pick overall) and sold their 54th pick to the Brooklyn Nets.

For their efforts, Andrew Sharp of SB Nation gave the Sixers a grade of B in his 2012 NBA Draft Grades column.

It's hard to grade the Harkless pick since nobody has any idea whether he'll capitalize on all the potential, but even if he never puts it all together, he should give Philly one more absurdly athletic wing to play with, and his length will be an asset on both ends of the floor. Arnett Moultrie was pretty solid at the 27 pick, too, as long as there are some solid protections on that future 1st round pick (no lottery, for instance).

The key now is whether they can turn Andre Iguodala into a piece that makes them better than a seventh or eighth seed in the East. But that's been the question for two years now, so I guess we'll just have to keep waiting. GRADE: B.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

A Look At 76ers Surprising Pick of Moe Harkless

A look at the new 76ers acquired last night in the NBA draft, and how they could fit with the 76ers current roster, and whether they indicate any future roster moves.

NBA Draft 2012: Liberty Ballers Happy With Change In Draft Philosophy

Michael Levin at our 76ers site Liberty Ballers gave his thoughts on the first round selections of Maurice Harkless and Arnett Moultrie. With Harkless, Levin is excited about the potential Harkless has with the 76ers over the next few years:

Whether or not I love Moe Harkless as a prospect is tangential to the bigger picture. The Sixers definitely have needs with the team assembled as is, but as we've said: needs are irrelevant when you're mediocre. The most important thing for the Sixers to do was draft for talent. And Harkless has a ton of potential and, at 19, will likely not contribute right away. They aren't full-on rebuilding, but that's certainly a step in the right direction.

The 76ers were high on Moultrie when the draft started, and when he was still there at No. 27, the 76ers traded back into the first round to select the Mississippi State product. While he needs some polishing, Moultrie is a big talent not to pass over at that point in the first round:

He's got a lot of athleticism to him -- more than anyone in the Sixers frontcourt right now -- and could become a better rebounder and defender with some polishing. I still think he's a backup big, but they clearly loved him. Rod Thorn even drunkenly claimed he was "one of the top 10 players in the Draft". And by trading up to get him, the Sixers feel like they've got two of the 10 best players in the Draft. Pretty rad.

And while Levin was happy with the selections of Harkless and Moultrie, Levin was more excited about the way the 76ers drafted:

Both Harkless and Moultrie could be terrible. Or they could be franchise cornerstones. Regardless, their selections represent a different line of thinking from the previously-stale ways of the Sixers front office. We'll have more specific thoughts on everything in the coming days, but for now I urge you to cling to the growing chance that this franchise soon leaves the suffocating confines of mediocrity.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: Winners & Losers (via sbnation)

2012 NBA Draft Grades: 76ers Draft Good, But Not Great

With the NBA Draft complete, its time to see how the Philadelphia 76ers graded out with their two selections in the first round. In his column on CBSSports.com, Royce Young gave Philadelphia a C+ for their selection of Maurice Harkless with the 15th pick.

Analysis: The Sixers just added another player that can't shoot and needs to get to the rim to score. He can defend, but isn't this just Andre Iguodala lite? You have to assume he's a future replacement for Iguodala who the 76ers have been trying to trade for forever. If so, not a bad pick. If not, curious.

While Young wasn't high on the selection of Harkless, he gave the 76ers a B- when Arnett Moultrie was chosen at number 27:

Analysis: This pick being traded to the 76ers from the Heat, but a bit of an unexpected free fall for Moultrie. Some had him as a late lottery guy and here he is falling nearly out of the first round. The Sixers can use more size and Moultrie is an athletic, explosive player that needs to refine his game.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: Arnett Moultrie Scouting Report (via sbnnba)

2012 NBA Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Trade No. 54 Pick To Brooklyn Nets For Cash

The Philadelphia 76ers traded the No. 54 overall pick in the second round of the 2012 NBA Draft to the Brooklyn Nets for cash, according to Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports.

Philadelphia sent that 54th pick to Brooklyn for cash, source tells Y!

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) June 29, 2012

The Philadelphia 76ers technically selected Tornike Shengelia out of Georgia (the country, not the school) with the No. 54 pick, but the 6'9, 220-pound small forward should be making his way to Brooklyn instead.

Barring a late deal, the Sixers are likely done Thursday in Newark. They selected forward Maurice Harkless out of St. John's with the No. 15 pick, and traded the No. 45 pick and a future first rounder to the Miami Heat for Mississippi State center Arnett Moultrie.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: 76ers 1st Rounder To Heat Lottery Protected In 2013, '14 And '15

The Philadelphia 76ers sent a future first round pick and the No. 45 selection in the 2012 NBA Draft to the Miami Heat in exchange for the rights to Mississippi State center Arnett Moultrie. It is certainly a hefty price for a rookie, though Chad Ford reports that the Sixers did have the foresight to protect the first rounder.

76ers will send Heat future first. Lottery protected in 2013, 14, 15.If they don't receive 1st by 15, they get a 2nd in 15 & 16

— Chad Ford (@chadfordinsider) June 29, 2012

The Sixers clearly believe Moultrie is worth the price. There were murmurs that the organization was prepared to select the 6'11 center with the No. 15 overall pick of the draft. They selected forward Maurice Harkless out of St. John's instead, but Moultrie still remained a priority.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: Sixers Trade Up, Take Arnett Moultrie

The Philadelphia 76ers may have had a strategy all along. Although the No. 15 pick, Maurice Harkless, came as a surprise to most Sixers fans, the front office finally got their man in Arnett Moultrie, a 6'11" center from Mississippi State. The Sixers made a trade with the Miami Heat, acquiring Moultrie in exchange for the 45th pick of this years draft, along with a future first rounder.

SB Nation Philly's own Derek Bodner had this to say about Moultrie,

At nearly 22 years of age by the time of his rookie season, Moultrie's advanced age doesn't necessarily reflect his development as a prospect. He saw a good portion of his offense in the post last year, something he's not all that comfortable with. He also didn't take a whole lot of attempts from the perimeter, something he's going to have to prove he's comfortable doing in individual workouts.

He's also thin, which could be troublesome defending the post in the NBA.

He does have good length (nearly 6'11"), great athleticism, and has improved his pick and roll defense. He's a good finisher at the rim off of offensive rebounds and cuts, and a solid defensive rebounder. He may never put together the complete package in terms of skill sets, but he could certainly work himself into a solid contributor.

The future will tell how each player will fit into Doug Collins system. If Moultrie can improve on his defense, this could be a good fit.

2012 NBA Draft: Philadelphia 76ers select Maurice Harkless No. 15 Overall

I was getting information telling me the Sixers would select Tyler Zeller. I was happy thinking of Zeller as a Sixer. He is a legitimate seven footer, with an amazing motor, work ethic and basketball sense.

Then, just before David Stern stepped onto the podium, I read a text reading Mo Harkless. Harkless is a 6'8" SF from St. Johns. He doesn't focus on post moves. Instead he is a tall athletic slasher...similar to nearly every other player on the Sixers roster not named Spencer Hawes.

What this move tells me is that a player that I value, Andre Iguodala, is most likely heading out of town. In his place is a younger version, who is not a lock-down defender. Unless the Sixers have a deal in place for a top flight center, this move makes zero sense to me.

Hopefully, more information on a potential move becomes available as the night moves on. If it does I will break it here. Follow on @Waiting4Godunk for more Draft info.

2012 NBA Draft Results: Maurice Harkless Selected No. 15 Overall By Philadelphia 76ers

With the No. 15 overall pick in Thursday night's 2012 NBA Draft, the Philadelphia 76ers selected Maurice Harkless out of St. John's.

Harkless, a 6'8, 208-pound forward, averaged 15.3 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game during his freshman season with the Red Storm.

Harkless brings some much needed versatility to the Sixers' frontcourt, which could be without Andre Iguodala next season.

SI.com had plenty of good things to say about Harkless, though he will need to add size if he hopes to be a productive rebounder at the next level.

"Harkless is a smooth player with great athleticism and length, possessing a quick first step which enables him to beat his defender and get to the rim. Shooting from the perimeter, though, is an area he needs to work on. Harkless only made 17 of 79 3-point attempts (21.5 percent) and often struggles to create his own shot or make baskets when pulling up off the dribble. He is a solid rebounder due to his ability to attack the rim but is slight and may need to bulk up in order to bang down low with the bigger bodies in the NBA - especially if he is going to be used at one of the forward positions."

The Sixers also have pick Nos. 45 and 54 in the second round.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: Potential Sixers Busts or Studs

The Sixers are looking for a solid interior player at 15 this year. Because Thomas Robinson fell to fifth overall, (Opposition playing Sacramento...Bring aspirin!) the lottery has been jumbled. The Sixers now can be aggressive, trade up and take a guy like Drummond, or wait for one of the other talented bigs to fall into their laps.

I will now show my "Potential Bust List" along with my "Potential Stud List"

Stud List

Andre Drummond, UCONN He is young, has terrific defensive instincts and has the size and athleticism to be amazing.

Tyler Zeller, UNC One of the most intelligent, skilled players in the draft. Don't believe the hype. Zeller is a talent!

Jared Sullinger, Ohio St. Back issues have forced him down most draft boards, but his ability to take over a game makes him a potential NBA stud.

Bust List

Perry Jones, Baylor My issue with Jones is similar to most people's issues. He didn't have the work ethic and motor while attempting to prove he deserves NBA money. What would make anyone think that would change when he is earning NBA money?

Terrance Jones, Kentucky Similar issue with Jones. He has been labeled lazy. That is a terrible tag to have. Some other lottery picks were given that title...See Villanueva, Charlie.

2012 NBA Draft: Anthony Davis selected No. 1 Overall

In a shock to no one, the New Orleans Hornets selected Anthony Davis as the number one overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. Ever since the photo of Anthony Davis wearing a Charlotte Hornets hat emerged (On the morning of the 2012 Lottery...Shady), it was pretty evident that Davis would be calling New Orleans his home.

2012 NBA Draft: Live Blogging

Draft night can make or break an NBA franchise. Besides 1996, the draft has mostly broken the Philadelphia 76ers. The list is long and nauseating. Larry Hughes instead of Paul Pierce, Marreese Speights instead of Roy Hibbert, Nikola Vucevic instead of Kenneth Faried. Because of this we have spent the last decade stuck in mediocrity.

Now with the 15th pick in this years draft, the Sixers have a chance to grab a legitimate big, an upgrade from the past few years.

I will be blogging live during the 2012 NBA Draft. Write me on Twitter @Waiting4Godunk with any comments or questions.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Projected To Select Andrew Nicholson

In his latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, Tom Ziller of SB Nation projects the Philadelphia 76ers to select Andrew Nicholson of St. Bonaventure with the No. 15 pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.

Nicholson is also reportedly drawing interest from the Houston Rockets (pick Nos. 12, 16 and 18), Denver Nuggets (No. 20) and the Boston Celtics (Nos. 21 and 22). The 6-foot-10 power forward averaged 18.5 points and 8.4 rebounds during his senior season at St. Bonaventure, leading the school to its first NCAA tournament berth in 12 years.

With a number of impending free agents, including Lou Williams and Spencer Hawes, the Sixers enter the draft with several needs. Sixers president of basketball operations, Rod Thorn, has said he would love to acquire an athletic big man in the draft.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft 2012, Trade Rumors: Chad Ford Says Philadelphia Could Look To Move Up For Terrence Ross

The Philadelphia 76ers have the 15th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft. Most analysts, fans and anyone else with an opinion on the matter, predict that they will select a big man to bolster their team. As for which big man they draft, much will depend on how the order of things shakes out. Chad Ford at ESPN says that the Sixers should make Washington Huskies forward Terrence Ross their top pick, but that might mean trading up in the draft.

Here is what Ford said in discussing potential trade scenarios for the Sixers:

They've been looking for a spot higher in the first round to nab Terrence Ross.

Ford's big board for Philadelphia, looks like this:

1. Terrence Ross
2. Jeremy Lamb
3. Arnett Moultrie
4. Perry Jones
5. Terrence Jones

Just how far up would they have to move to get Ross? In Ford's mock draft, Ross goes the Milwaukee Bucks, who pick one spot ahead of Philadelphia. Keep an eye on the rumor mill as the draft gets closer.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Will The 76ers Consider Terrence Jones?

All the predictions and guesses will melt away into reality on Thursday night in Newark when the 2012 NBA Draft gets underway. In the meantime, trade rumors and speculation about draft picks will dominate the conversation. The Philadelphia 76ers have the 15th pick in the first round.

Many experts see the Sixers trying to add a big man to the lineup. Kentucky forward Terrence Jones, at 6'10" 252 pounds, fills that need in the latest mock draft from SI.com. Here's the write up from Sam Amick:

The Sixers don't have any big men locked up beyond next season except reserve center Nikola Vucevic, a rookie last season. Jones could evolve into a long-term frontcourt solution who could play power forward and possibly some small forward (opinions vary there). Jones is a good passer, defender and rebounder who averaged 12.3 points (on 50 percent shooting from the field and 32.7 percent on three-pointers), 7.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals last season for the national champion Wildcats.

The draft starts at 7:00 p.m. Eastern and can be seen on ESPN.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft: Time, TV Schedule, Results, Grades And More

The rumors and speculation become real on Thursday night when the 2012 NBA Draft happens. New Orleans has the first pick in the draft, and Kentucky's Anthony Davis is the consensus top pick. Beyond Davis, the picture gets cloudier.

The Philadelphia 76ers have the 15th pick in the first round. One recent rumor had them interested in Ohio State's Jared Sullinger with that pick.

The draft starts at 7:00 p.m. Easter on Thursday, June 28, from the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ. Both rounds will be broadcast live on ESPN and streamed live online via ESPN3. There will be additional coverage starting at 5:30 p.m. on NBA TV.

Here is the order of the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft:

1. New Orleans Hornets
2. Charlotte Bobcats
3. Washington Wizards
4. Cleveland Cavaliers
5. Sacramento Kings
6. Portland Trail Blazers
7. Golden State Warriors
8. Toronto Raptors
9. Detroit Pistons
10. New Orleans Hornets
11. Portland Trail Blazers
12. Milwaukee Bucks
13. Phoenix Suns
14. Houston Rockets
15. Philadelphia 76ers
16. Houston Rockets
17. Dallas Mavericks
18. Minnesota Timberwolves
19. Orlando Magic
20. Denver Nuggets
21. Boston Celtics
22. Boston Celtics
23. Atlanta Hawks
24. Cleveland Cavaliers
25. Memphis Grizzlies
26. Indiana Pacers
27. Miami Heat
28. Oklahoma City Thunder
29. Chicago Bulls
30. Golden State Warriors

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers Considering Jared Sullinger At No. 15

Philadelphia 76ers president of basketball operations Rod Thorn has stated his interest in drafting an athletic big man with the team's first-round pick in Thursday night's 2012 NBA Draft (No. 15 overall).

Jared Sullinger doesn't exactly fit the mold, but Thorn said the Sixers are considering the Ohio State big man with their selection.

#Sixers Rod Thorn on Jared Sullinger: 'We are considering him (at No. 15). He is a talented player.'

— Tom Moore (@tmoorepburbs) June 27, 2012

Sullinger's stock has been falling as the draft approaches because of health concerns surrounding his back, and it didn't help that he was underwhelming during tests at the NBA combine. But the 6-foot-9, 268-pound center was dominant during two seasons at Ohio State, averaging 17.3 points and 9.7 rebounds per game during his short college career.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Sixers Linked Again To Perry Jones III

With the 2012 NBA Draft only one day away, mock drafts are coming out in full force. One of the nest mockers out there is Jonathan Givony of Yahoo, and he has the Philadelphia 76ers taking Perry Jones III at the 15th overall pick.

Jones is an athletic freak-of-nature who brings a nice blend of explosiveness and shooting ability to the table. The Baylor product would be a great fit on the Sixers, since they're in desperate need of someone who can make defenders think twice about leaving the post for even a second.

Spencer Hawes is most likely on his way out of town and Elton Brand clearly isn't the man you want as the dominant inside presence anymore. Jones is 6-foot-11 and at just 233 pounds, has plenty of room to fill out his frame.

The one concern about Jones is his ability to be tough in the paint, something that head coach Doug Collins will have to make sure doesn't become a reality.

However if Jones is available when Philadelphia is ready to pick, the team would have to think long and hard about passing up this type of talent.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Guide For 76ers Fans

With the 2012 NBA draft tomorrow, we took a look at the prospects in the draft and their potential fits as players on the 76ers, including players available both if the 76ers stay at 15 and if they move up.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Meyers Leonard Works Out For Philadelphia 76ers, Team Won't Trade Up

The Philadelphia 76ers worked out Illinois big man Meyers Leonard (7-1, 250) on Tuesday. Leonard might or might not be available for the Sixers with the No. 15 pick in Thursday's NBA Draft. However, working out Leonard fits in with the recent statements from general manager Rod Thorn about looking for an athletic center.

Thorn said about the workout, "We had a good workout today. Meyers Leonard is definitely a guy that is in our mix." However, Thorn also ruled out the possibility of the Sixers moving up to take Leonard or another big. "I don't see us moving up. I think we're content to be about where we are - right now." (via CSN Philly)

Leonard led the Big Ten with 1.9 blocks per game last season and averaged 8.2 rebounds per game (third in Big Ten). Leonard scored 13.6 points per game but is admittedly still raw on offense.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Projected To Select Perry Jones

In his latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft at Draft Express, Jonathan Givony projects the Philadelphia 76ers to select Perry Jones III of Baylor with the 15th pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.

Jones, a 6-foot-11, 235-pound forward, averaged 13.5 points and 7.6 rebounds during his sophomore season at Baylor. NBA scouts are intrigued by his potential, as he has guard skills and the length of a center. But the 20-year old failed to dominate during his two seasons at Baylor, and there are questions as to whether he will ever reach his impressive potential.

Interestingly, a trainer who has been working out Jones recently, Dr. Marcus Elliott, said the way Jones moved might have been partially to blame for the notion that he didn't play his hardest at Baylor. After teaching Jones how to generate force from his hips rather than his knees, Elliott believes Jones will be able to play with a more consistent level of power.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers Looking For Athletic Big

The Philadelphia 76ers could very well draft a big man with their first-round selection (No. 15 overall) in the 2012 NBA Draft. If they do, president of basketball operations Rod Thorn said on Tuesday, they'd like to grab an athletic one.

#Sixers Rod Thorn: "You’d like to get an athletic guy if you go big. Our bigs aren’t super athletic."

— Tom Moore (@tmoorepburbs) June 26, 2012

#Sixers Rod Thorn: "If we can get an athletic big who can rebound, help defensively and make a jump shot, that’d be a coup for us."

— Tom Moore (@tmoorepburbs) June 26, 2012

Thorn also said there are "two, three guys that bring excitement" to the Sixers, and he hopes at least one of them will remain available when the Sixers select.

Athletic bigs in the draft class who might drop to Philadelphia's pick include Meyers Leonard of Illinois and Tyler Zeller of North Carolina. Both are projected as late lottery picks, but could fall to the Sixers at No. 15.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: Scoop Jardine Breaks Foot, Will Have Surgery Tuesday

Playing in the NBA has been a boyhood dream of Philadelphia native Scoop Jardine, but his aspirations to become a professional basketball player took a huge hit this past weekend when the former Syracuse guard broke his right foot in a workout in Los Angeles.

The injury, which happened when Jardine's foot came down on foot of Mississippi State's Dee Bost, will force the point guard to have surgery in LA on Tuesday and then undergo six to eight weeks of rehabilitation. The injury couldn't have came at a worse time for the 6-foot-2 guard, who was hoping to have his named called at Thursday's 2012 NBA Draft.

Jardine, who worked out for the Philadelphia 76ers a few weeks ago, was getting positive feedback from NBA teams, but now will miss the NBA's Summer League.

"I’m trying to stay positive,’’ the 6-foot-2 guard, who led Syracuse to the NCAA’s Elite Eight, said. He laughed and said, "I’ll probably be able to jump after this.’’

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Philadelphia 76ers Could Be Forced To Go Big, According To Report

The Philadelphia 76ers are interested in selecting a guard, but could be forced to settle for a big man in the upcoming 2012 NBA Draft because of growing uncertainty regarding the free agency status of Spencer Hawes, David Aldridge of NBA.com reported on Monday.

At No. 15, the Sixers would seemingly be in the market for a guard, with leading scorer Lou Williams opting out of his deal and becoming an unrestricted free agent next Sunday. But word is that Philly may be choking on the contract demands of starting center Spencer Hawes as well (you hear numbers like $8 million a year being thrown around), and may have to go big in case it can't come to terms with the 7-footer.

With Hawes, Williams and Elton Brand among nine Sixers free agents, the team's roster could look drastically different by the time training camp arrives.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: 76ers Linked To John Henson

In the latest installment of the 2012 NBA Mock Draft by SB Nation, the Philadelphia 76ers are taking John Henson from North Carolina.

Michael Levin of Liberty Ballers decided to pounce on Henson in this mock, and it's a smart move. Henson is a freakish athlete with gangly arms and a tremendous defensive presence. The 76ers need some size in the interior with Spencer Hawes more than likely leaving through free agency.

Henson would provide that size along with a shot-blocking presence that the Sixers have been missing for quite some time.

The youngster might need his frame to fill out some more to play on the inside against NBA talent, but he looks like a carbon-copy of Marcus Camby. Who wouldn't want that situation arising, especially outside of the lottery?

Head coach Doug Collins would have to be jumping for joy if Henson was around at the 15th overall pick come Thursday night.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Sixers Work Out Six Big Men on Saturday

With the draft on Thursday, the Philadelphia 76ers hosted six big men for a workout on Saturday, according to CSNPhilly.com. While it is unclear who they are leaning towards selecting, it's clear that they will target size in the draft.

The six players that Philadelphia worked out were Andrew Nicholson of St. Bonaventure, Perry Jones III of Baylor, John Henson and Tyler Zeller of North Carolina, Arnett Moultrie of Mississippi State and Terrence Jones of Kentucky.

The workout proved strenuous for those who attended.

Saturday’s workout, a few of the players admitted, was one of the toughest they have participated in thus far, because of how familiar they've become with one another. Last season, Moultrie’s Bulldogs played against both Jones III’s Baylor team and SEC-rival Jones’ national-champion Kentucky squad. North Carolina and Kentucky also saw each other out-of-conference.

The Sixers hold the 15th pick of the draft.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft Rumors: 76ers To Draft Terrence Jones In Latest Mock Draft

With the 2012 NBA Draft starting on Thursday, the Philadelphia 76ers have a lot of post options to choose from with the 15th overall selection. In his latest mock draft, SI.com's Sam Amick has the 76ers taking Kentucky power forward at No. 15.

Here is Amick's explanation on why he thinks Jones will be heading to Philadelphia:

The Sixers don't have any big men locked up beyond next season except reserve rookie center Nikola Vucevic. Jones could evolve into a long-term frontcourt solution who could play power forward and possibly some small forward (opinions vary there). Jones is a good passer, defender and rebounder who averaged 12.3 points (on 50 percent shooting from the field and 32.7 percent on three-pointers), 7.2 rebounds and 1.3 steals last season for the national champion Wildcats.

Jones has the size that the 76ers are looking for in this year's draft, and has the ability to stretch out opposing defenses with his shooting range and skill set.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Perry Jones III To Visit Sixers

Perry Jones III is one of the players who will visit with the Philadelphia 76ers in advance of the 2012 NBA Draft, according to Tom Moore of Philly Burbs.

Team prez Thorn says more likely mid-first-round picks deciding to visit #Sixers, including Perry Jones III from #Baylor. Philly has No. 15.

— Tom Moore (@tmoorepburbs) June 20, 2012

Jones remains an enigma after two seasons at Baylor. He's a skilled, mobile, 6-foot-11 forward who has drawn comparisons to Kevin Durant, but he also failed to produce at an elite level in college, averaging 13.5 points and 7.6 rebounds as a sophomore.

Jones was projected to be a top-five pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, but decided to return to Baylor for another year of seasoning. Rather than take a step forward during his encore season, Jones' development stagnated and teams still have doubts about whether he will ever reach his vast potential.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Sixers Add Size With Arnett Moultrie

Size seems to be the running theme when it comes to the Philadelphia 76ers and the latest round of 2012 NBA Mock Drafts. A new swish of the tea leaves from Matt Moore at CBSSports.com has the Sixers finding some size for their lineup.

Moore has the Sixers drafting Arnett Moultrie, PF, Mississippi State. Here's his take on the pick:

The Sixers are in desperate need of bigs a this makes a lot of sense. They can manage to develop him slowly behind who they have and work him into the rotation. This helps them not overpay for Spencer Hawes, which is always a plus.

Moultrie averaged more than 16 points a game last season for the Bulldogs. He averaged 10.5 rebounds per game at the same time.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Terrence Jones Linked To Sixers

In the latest edition of the SB Nation 2012 NBA Mock Draft by Tom Ziller, the Philadelphia 76ers are linked to Terrence Jones of Kentucky in the first round.

The Sixers hold the 15th overall pick overall and could use some serious size, especially if Spencer Hawes doesn't return as Ziller pointed out. Jones provides a long, athletic frame that would go very nicely with Andre Iguodala and Evan Turner.

Both of the aforementioned players come from winning backgrounds in their collegiate days and obviously Jones fits that mold. Philadelphia isn't far away from becoming a real contender, but it needs that man on the block who can get it done in crunch time.

Elton Brand is done as a star (long done) and with the style of play Doug Collins coaches, the next logical step would be to add an inside presence above anything else.

If Jones falls to the Sixers, they can't pass him up.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Chad Ford Projects Terrence Jones To Philadelphia 76ers

In Chad Ford's latest 2012 NBA Mock Draft, the ESPN analyst projects that the Philadelphia 76ers will select Terrence Jones of Kentucky with the 15th pick.

"The Sixers might have a tough choice here between Jones, Jared Sullinger and Arnett Moultrie. They need size, but also shooting. Jones may be the compromise," Ford wrote. "He measured out very well for a power forward at the combine, has an NBA body and proved to be a solid rebounder and shot-blocker in college. He has tremendous upside if he puts his heart into it.

"Sullinger, meanwhile, would give the Sixers the starting-caliber replacement for Elton Brand if he can stay healthy, while Moultrie is a long, bouncy, athletic big man who could stretch the floor."

Jones averaged 12.3 points and 7.2 rebounds last season for the national champion Kentucky Wildcats. He is a skilled, long, 6-foot-9 inch combo-forward whose biggest flaw might be a tendency to disappear from games for stretches at a time. Given his talent level, Jones is likely to make an immediate impact in the NBA. And he could potentially become a star if he figures out a way to harness his potential.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft Rumors: Temple's Ramone Moore Drawing Interest From Philadelphia 76ers, Among Others

The Philadelphia 76ers are among the teams interested in former Temple guard Ramone Moore as the 2012 NBA Draft approaches, the Racine Journal-Times reported on Saturday.

Moore did not receive an invitation to the NBA Draft Combine, but has nonetheless drawn the interest of several teams including the Sixers and Houston Rockets, according to the Times' Gery Woelfel. Moore is scheduled to work out for the Milwaukee Bucks on Saturday.

The 6-foot-4 shooting guard averaged 17.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists during his senior year at Temple. He connected on 1.8 triples per game, shooting 38.3 percent from behind the arc.

Moore is expected to go undrafted, but he's the type of accomplished player who shouldn't have trouble finding a summer league invitation in the case he does not got selected.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. All Sixers draft coverage can be found here.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Sixers Select Perry Jones

The 2012 NBA Draft is less than two weeks away, where the Philadelphia own three picks. On paper, this year's draft is expected to be deeper than year's past, so the Sixers will have a great opportunity to add an intriguing player to their young core of Jrue Holiday, Evan Turner and Thaddeus Young, with the 15th pick.

Jonathan Givony, of DraftExpress.com, recently published a mock draft for Yahoo! Sports. Here's what he has the Sixers doing in the middle of the first round:

15. Philadelphia
Perry Jones PF
20 years old; 6'11"; 220 lbs., Baylor, Sophomore

The Sixers are in a position to pick the best player that drops to them at 15, and Perry Jones is one of the most talented prospects in this draft. He can play alongside any of the frontcourt players the 76ers have at the moment, and would benefit greatly from the tough love of head coach Doug Collins.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates. All Sixers draft coverage can be found here.

NBA Draft 2012 Rumors: Sixers Projected To Select Austin Rivers In Latest Mock Draft

The Philadelphia 76ers were once again linked to Duke freshman shooting guard Austin Rivers in a mock draft. Rivers was also linked to the Sixers as recently as last week.

In the latest SI Mock Draft by Sam Amick, he sees the Sixers taking Rivers with the No. 15 pick in the first round of the 2012 NBA Draft. Here's what Amick said about the selection of Rivers (6-5, 203), who is the son of current Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers:

"The Sixers are well-equipped in their backcourt with young Jrue Holiday and Evan Turner, but Rivers could fit in nicely with his ability to create his own shot and play both positions. The bigger Ross is the better shooter and athlete of the two, but he doesn't have Rivers' versatility." (via SI)

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

76ers Draft Rumors: Mock Draft Links Terrance Ross to Sixers

With the 2012 NBA Draft rapidly approaching, the Philadelphia 76ers are getting ready to add some pieces.

This could be a huge year for the Sixers, considering they were just one game away from the Eastern Conference Finals. If they can grab a steal at the 15th pick, they could make a quantum leap going forward.

On ESPN.com, NBA expert Chad Ford released a mock draft that has Philadelphia taking shooting guard Terrance Ross of Washington with its first round selection.

Ross would be an ideal fit for this group. He's a long, athletic sniper at 6' 6'' who can stretch the defense and knock down outside shots. While the Sixers would love to get their hands on a big man (like 90 percent of the league), Ross would be a nice addition to this young core.

Ross would conceivably make Evan Turner and Andre Iguodala even more dangerous if he lived up to his potential, as teams would have to defend further away from the basket. Finally, they would have some open lanes to maneuver through.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft Rumors: 76ers, Thunder Among Teams Interested In Dayton's Chris Johnson

ESPN NBA draft insider Chad Ford reports that the Sixers, Thunder & Wizards are among the teams interested Dayton guard Chris Johnson as a potential second round pick.

Johnson averaged just over 12 points per game last year shot nearly 40% from 3 point land. Ford noted that while he measured just 6-3½ in socks, he had an amazing 6-11 wingspan and a big vertical jump. Those measurements certainly explain why he was such a good rebounder in college.

Ford says that overall Johnson came off as a good athlete in workouts and showed a nice shooting stroke. His main problem is that he may only ever be a spot up shooter. He’s not a great ballhandler and rarely got to the line in college.

For more on the Sixers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Sixers Select Austin Rivers, From Duke

The Philadelphia 76ers own three picks in the upcoming NBA Draft – 15th, 45th and 54th overall. With so much uncertainty surrounding the team, the Sixers should be looking to take the best player available with each of their selections.

Draft Express recently published a new mock draft. Here's who they have the Sixers taking at their respective selections:

15. Austin Rivers, Guard, Duke

45. JaMychal Green, Power Forward, Alabama

54. William Buford, Shooting Guard, Ohio State

Rivers has been in the spotlight since his high school days, when he was a top college recruit. The son of Boston Celtics head coach, Doc Rivers, has been universally projected to go somewhere in the mid-to-late first round.

Interestingly, DX has the Sixers passing on uber-talented big man, Perry Jones.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

76ers Draft Rumors: Andre Drummond Meets With Sixers

According to Steve Kyler, of Hoops World, the Philadelphia 76ers were one of the teams to meet with polarizing prospect, Andre Drummond, at the 2012 NBA Combine.

Andre Drummond has met with Portland, Philadelphia, Charlotte and New Orleans... said meeting went great.

Drummond is universally ranked as a top 10 prospect and the other teams Kyler referenced all own top 10 picks. The Philadelphia 76ers aren't scheduled to pick until after the lottery, at pick 15. This could just be a case of Rod Thorn, Doug Collins, and the Sixers doing their due diligence. Or it may be an indication that the Sixers will explore their options to move up in the draft. Along with the 15th pick, they also own the 45th and 54th.

The Sixers desperately need big men. Andre Drummond is just that.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NBA Draft: Sixers Work Out Doron Lamb, Scoop Jardine

The Philadelphia 76ers had pre-draft workouts with Scoop Jardine and Doron Lamb this week. Could either player be on their radar with a second-round pick?

2012 NBA Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Schedule Five In Pre-Draft Workout

The Sixers have scheduled a pre-draft workout, which includes five big men.

2012 NBA Mock Draft: Philadelphia 76ers Linked To Terrance Jones

The 2012 NBA Draft is nearing as the season will come to a close in the next few weeks. With that time comes the mock drafts, and very few are legitimate like the one over at DraftExpress.com.

According to their mock, the Philadelphia 76ers are linked to Terrance Jones out of the University of Kentucky with the 15th pick of the first round.

The Sixers could use a long athletic forward to pair with Andre Iguodala (if they don't trade him). Jones is a 6-foot-9 power forward who would fit in great alongside the other pieces already in place. Elton Brand could be moved to the bench where he could be more effective playing less minutes.

Jones would immediately make the bench deeper and the starters better with his bevy of abilities on the inside.

Also in the second round, the Sixers were mocked to take Kostas Papanikolaou, a small forward from Greece and Nihad Djedovic, also a small forward who hails from Bosnia.

For more on the 76ers, please be sure to check out our blog Liberty Ballers and SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Draft Lottery 2012: Odds, Time, TV Schedule And More

By tonight, Anthony Davis will know what kind of clothes he needs to buy.

It will most likely be some shorts and a few new t-shirts if the percentages hold true. He'd be headed to Michael Jordan and the Charlotte Bobcats if all goes according to plan on Wednesday night in the 2012 NBA Draft Lottery.

Of course, things don't always turn out as the percentages would predict. Only a few years ago, the Chicago Bulls had less than a one percent chance to land the number one overall pick but did exactly that when Derrick Rose was the marquee name.

This year, the draft is stocked with legitimate talent through the first ten selections but the big prize is Davis, the shot-blocking machine out of Kentucky.

It's always fun to watch the lottery with the suspense building the whole time. The team executives are basically desperate to hold onto their jobs after failing miserably and praying for that top pick.

The lottery is always a good time, unless you happen to be the guy who should draft first but ends up with the fifth selection.

Here is a full list of the percentages each team has for the first overall selection:

Charlotte Bobcats: 25.0%

Washington Wizards:19.9%

Cleveland Cavaliers: 13.8%

New Orleans Hornets: 13.7%

Sacramento Kings: 7.6%

Brooklyn Nets: 7.5%

Golden State Warriors: 3.6%

Toronto Raptors: 3.5%

Detroit Pistons: 1.7%

Minnesota Timberwolves: 1.1%

Portland Trail Blazers: 0.8%

Milwaukee Bucks: 0.7%

Phoenix Suns: 0.6%

Houston Rockets: 0.5%

TV: ESPN

Time: 8:00 p.m. ET

For more on the NBA Draft Lottery, please be sure to check out SB Nation Philly for all the latest news and updates.

NBA Mock Draft: Sixers Are Linked To Austin Rivers

Austin Rivers is linked to the 76ers in a recent NBA Mock Draft.