The Philadelphia 76ers spent last season going up and down more often than a junkie on a see saw (happy belated father’s day, dad!). Even though they finished the year strong, questions swirled around the team like the Riddler was at point guard. The futures of Elton Brand, Spencer Hawes and Andre Iguodala were uncertain. The draft could shape this team for years to come. Matters of life and death hung in the balance, thick with anticipation. In the distance, a wolf cried.
With their 1st round pick (15th), the Sixers chose Small Forward Maurice Harkless. Harkless the herald angels sing that he is a physical scorer with potential to develop into a solid defensive player as well. The Sixers then went ahead and traded for the Heat’s first round pick (27th), Arnett Moultrie, in exchange for a second round (45th) pick and a future first round pick.
Some experts were surprised Moultrie fell beyond the 20th pick, displaying a nice eye for the rim (.549 FG%) and sturdy, manly hands (10.5 RPG). Moe Harkless, meanwhile, showed a .452 GF% with 1.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, and 1.4 BPG. In deeper leagues, either player could be worthwhile as a late round flyer. Even in today’s NBA, youth and promise still have some value.
