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The Philadelphia 76ers will start a new “process” under new general manager Bryan Colangelo this offseason, starting with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft later this month. Looking ahead to next season, here is Philadelphia’s ideal starting five for 2016-17.
Point Guard: Ish Smith
Credit: Getty ImagesPoint Guard: Ish Smith
Smith was acquired from the Pelicans in a December trade, and he proceeded to be a productive player in 50 games for the 76ers (14.7 points, 7.0 assists, 4.3 rebounds per game). He is a free agent, but Philadelphia should absolutely bring Smith back.
Shooting Guard: Isaiah Canaan
Credit: Getty ImagesShooting Guard: Isaiah Canaan
The 76ers could add a shooting guard through free agency. But Canaan was fairly productive in 77 games (11.0 points per game; 36.3 percent from three) and the shoulder issue that ended his season a little early does not seem like a big concern.
Small Forward: Brandon Ingram
Credit: Getty ImagesSmall Forward: Brandon Ingram
Philadelphia has their choice between Ingram and Ben Simmons with the first overall pick. But Ingram was a better perimeter shooter in his lone season at Duke, and thus he's a better fit with the other frontcourt pieces the 76ers have.
Center: Joel Embiid
Credit: Getty ImagesCenter: Joel Embiid
Embiid is expected to finally be healthy enough to play next season, and the 76ers have a looming big man logjam. I see Nerlens Noel as a player on the move, opening up a starting spot for Embiid if he can get on the floor for a meaningful game.
Power Forward: Jahlil Okafor
Credit: Getty ImagesPower Forward: Jahlil Okafor
Between he and Noel, Okafor would surely get the better return in a trade. But the 76ers should not give the 2015 No. 3 overall pick away, and I think he'll be back next season.
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