2 weeks Ago By Sixers Wire
The Philadelphia 76ers did their job and put themselves in a great position to keep their top 6 protected draft pick. They finished with the fifth-worst record in the league at 24-58 which improved their chances at keeping that pick when the lottery rolls around on May 12.With that being said, it's time to look at some mock drafts and see who the Sixers are projected to pick at this early stage of the offseason.
Philadelphia could use some help at the wing spot, but could also use a big man to fully back up Joel Embiid at this point.A mock draft performed by Bleacher Report has the Sixers selecting Maryland big man Derik Queen:The Sixers have to be thinking about and questioning Joel Embiid's reliability and value moving forward into his 30s. And with the future backcourt looking strong—Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain and potentially free agent Quentin Grimes—Philadelphia could look to go big with Derik Queen in the draft.
Scouts who thought highly of Queen before the NCAA tournament should only feel more confident after Maryland's Sweet 16 exit. His three three-point makes and 27-point game against No. 1 seed Florida could have only helped turn some of the skeptics.
Queen's skill level, scoring versatility and passing IQ have been strong enough indicators of offensive success that certain teams will be willing to look past his defensive limitations.Queen had a terrific freshman season with the Terrapins averaging 16.5 points and 9.
0 rebounds while shooting 52.6% from the floor. He had a terrific NCAA Tournament run to the Sweet 16 for Maryland including hitting the game-winner against Colorado State and having 27 points in the Sweet 16 loss to eventual champion Florida.
This article originally appeared on Sixers Wire: 2025 NBA mock draft: Sixers select Maryland big man Derik Queen.
