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Texas Tech Basketball: Possible Landing Sports For Zhaire Smith

By Matthew Conner

BOSTON, MA - MARCH 23: Zhaire Smith
BOSTON, MA - MARCH 23: Zhaire Smith /
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PHILADELPHIA, PA – MAY 7: Dario Saric #9, Joel Embiid #21, and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Boston Celtics during Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round of the 2018 NBA Playoff at Wells Fargo Center on May 7, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA – MAY 7: Dario Saric #9, Joel Embiid #21, and Ben Simmons #25 of the Philadelphia 76ers look on against the Boston Celtics during Game Four of the Eastern Conference Second Round of the 2018 NBA Playoff at Wells Fargo Center on May 7, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images) /

The Philadelphia 76ers

One of the most exciting teams in the NBA is the Philadelphia 76ers.  After reaching the second round of the playoffs with a young nucleus built around big men Joel Embid and Ben Simmons, many think Philly is poised for a breakout next year.

Recent reports like the one below from Marc Spears of ESPN, claim that the Sixers are considering taking Zhaire Smith with the 10th overall pick.

Last season, the Sixers were an excellent defensive team ranking third in defensive rating.  Yet, there is always a need for another quality defender, especially if Philly wants to match-up with Eastern Conference co-favorite Boston who has a roster full of talented guards and forwards.

Where Smith might not add up for the Sixers is offensively.  Philadelphia needs spot-up outside shooting to compliment slashers like Simmons and point guard Markelle Fultz, who is coming off a major shoulder injury that many fear could impact his shot.

Philly ranked just 12th in the NBA with 11.0 three’s per game last year.  Their 36.9% from deep was 10th in the league but they will likely be looking to improve upon that number.

The Sixers could also be looking to replace their top outside shooter, veteran J.J. Reddick, who is a free-agent this year.  And speaking of free-agency, there is another significant move Philly might make.

The Sixers are expected to make a major push to sign LeBron James (should he opt out of his deal as is expected).  If they are confident in their chances of landing James, they might go in a different direction than Zhaire Smith who would play the off guard/small forward behind James.

It would be disappointing to see Zhaire Smith end up buried behind James, Simmons and Fultz on the depth chart.  There wold not be much playing time for him in such a situation.

Plus, the Sixers are being closely linked to two other forwards, Miles Bridges of Michigan State and hometown hero Mikal Bridges of Villanova.  Both are seen as better immediate offensive players and are projected to be available at pick No. 10.

However, some experts believe that Philly could be looking to trade back in the draft.   If that is the case, Zhaire Smith would certainly be in play.

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