76ers get third pick again, will likely target a guard

For the second time in as many draft lotteries, the 76ers will pick third overall. Their name was read just before the top two choices, the Lakers and Timberwolves were announced Tuesday night.

Though they did have an adequate shot at a top two selection, the third spot is perfect for the team’s needs, as the top two prospects are both big men (Karl-Anthony Towns, Jalil Okafor) expected to go in the top two, leaving a guard for Philly, just the position the team desperately needs.

The team will likely be able to pick between D’Angelo Russell (Ohio State) and Emmanuel Mudiay (played pro ball in China) while avoiding a third big man with top prospects Nerlens Noel and Joel Embiid already on the roster.

Prior to the lottery, the 76ers held a miniscule, but still possible .28 percent change of getting three top 11 picks, but they will wait on their Lakers and Heat first rounders until at least next year.

Knicks fans are certainly not pleased after the draft order was formally announced. They were awarded the fourth pick despite having the second-best chance at drafting first overall.

The NBA draft kicks off on June 25th.