With the NBA draft lottery finished, the draft order is set and the mock drafts are being unleashed. For the Sixers at pick 16, things are actually pretty simple this year. Their #1 need is clear, size. Luckily, it's a good year to need size in a draft that has been dubbed "The Year Of The Big Man."
So the question isn't what, it's who? Which big man drops, which one might they pick? So far, the popular selection in early mocks is Philly native Markieff Morris from the University of Kansas.
ESPN's Chad Ford - Markieff Morris - PF/C - Kansas
The Sixers really need a big man, and Morris, a Philly native, is the best one left on the board. Morris has a rep as a good defender, shot-blocker and rebounder, but he also proved at Kansas that he can step out and hit the 3. He's a bit rawer than his brother, but he's a good get at this point in the draft.
CBS Sports' Ben Golliver - Markieff Morris - PF/C - Kansas
When in doubt, add a talented big man to the frontcourt. The Sixers have some contract decisions to make after next season
SBNation's Tom Ziller - Jan Vesely - SF - Czech Republic
Another player who should be higher. I guess I'm biased against Euros! Vesely is reportedly more of a gazelle, and Omri Casspi-type transition star with little in the way of halfcourt refinement. That sounds exactly like the Philadelphia 76ers.
Hoops Hype's Aran Smith - Donatas Motiejunas - PF - Benetton Treviso (Italy)
The Sixers are looking to add a 4 in this draft and will hope that a player such as Markieff Morris falls to them. Motiejunas gives them offensive fire power and has come on late. He had a 31 and 13 rebound performance toward the end of the season. He showed flashes and remains a special offensive talent with the ability to score both inside and out. There are few prospects anywhere with the package of size, athleticism and offensive intrigue that he possesses. Improving his strength and defense is key. He's a finesse forward and will need to have a beast playing along with him as rebounding, defense and toughness aren't his strong suit. Does he want to be great? A number of scouts have concerns that he doesn't have the drive/passion to maximize his vast potential.
Draft Express' Jonathon Givony - Tristan Thompson - PF - Texas
With Elton Brand past his prime and Thaddeus Young entering restricted free agency, power forward appears to be the biggest position of need for the 76ers. Thompson could give the Sixers some added toughness and athleticism, which would surely please head coach Doug Collins.