It probably wasn't easy to trade away their All-Star point guard, but Philadelphia wasn't getting anywhere any time soon and needed to blow it up. This was by far the best deal they were going to get, landing the best player in this draft and a likely lottery pick in next year's loaded draft. Other players such as Spencer Hawes, Jason Richardson, and Evan Turner could also be traded
Nerlens Noel, C Kentucky (6)
If Noel hadn't torn his ACL, he would have been the top pick, as he is the best player in this draft, both on current ability and upside. Noel is already an elite defensive player who will only get better as he adds experience and strength. Offensively, he is raw but has all the tools to get better. Perhaps most importantly he is a hard worker with a great motor. Noel, Michael Carter-Williams, Thad Young, and next year's two potential lottery pick will make up Philadelphia's new core.
Michael Carter-Williams, PG Syracuse (11)
After trading Holiday, the Sixers didn't have a point guard currently under contract, so clearly that was a big need, which they filled with the highest upside point guard in the draft. At 6-6, Michael Carter-Williams is an elite athlete with outstanding court vision and finishing ability. I like his fit on what this team will be in the future, but Evan Turner drags down offenses so much, it could wear on a young point guard. However, once this team has been rebuilt, Carter-Williams is a perfect point guard to put with surrounding talent because of his unselfish game.
Second Round
Arsalan Kazemi, PF Oregon (54)
I really like Arsalan Kazemi and would guarantee that he makes this team because Philadelphia's coaches will love him and he can actually play. Kazemi is undersized as a power forward, but he is long and plays like crazy. He isn't the athlete that Kenneth Faried is, but he plays just as hard and is a tough defender, a good finished and great rebounder who grabbed 10 boards a game for Oregon.
Projected Rotation
PG: Michael Carter-Williams/Charles Jenkins (UFA)
SG: Jason Richardson/Justin Holiday
SF: Evan Turner/Young
PF: Thaddeus Young/Arnett Moultrie/Lavoy Allen
C: Nerlens Noel (when healthy)/Spencer Hawes/Kwame Brown
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