With the NBA draft right around the corner, now is the time to look at some past drafts and see what the Philadelphia 76ers have done in their history. The Sixers have selected some big-time players in the past who have become an important part of the fabric of the franchise’s history.
This edition focuses on the 2013 NBA draft as the Sixers began The Process era. New GM Sam Hinkie made a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans to send All-Star Jrue Holiday to New Orleans for the No. 6 pick which turned out to be Kentucky big man Nerlens Noel.
Noel missed his entire rookie year due to injury, but overall, he had some solid moments in Philadelphia. When he did get on the floor in 2014-15, Noel averaged 9.9 points, 8.1 rebounds, 1.8 steals, 1.7 assists, and 1.9 blocks. He made an impact as a rim runner offensively and as a defensive presence.
Noel spent 2.5 seasons with the Sixers before being dealt to the Dallas Mavericks at the 2017 deadline as Joel Embiid took steps forward in the 2016-17 season. Overall, Noel spent nine seasons in the league playing for the Sixers, Mavericks, Oklahoma City Thunder, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, and Brooklyn Nets. He carved out a solid role in this league and was a starter for the Knicks when they made the playoffs in 2021.
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