NBA Mock Draft 2016: Updated 1st-Round Predictions, Analysis for Top Prospects

The 2016 NBA draft is less than two months away, and clarity is still elusive regarding where this year’s top prospects will land come June 23. 

But that’s what we’re here for.

While there’s still plenty to be sorted out over the coming weeks, there are several intriguing fits that deserve to be analyzed as preparation for the annual selection process ramps up.  

As a reminder, the following projections were made based on the season-ending selection order that’s subject to change following the May 17 draft lottery.  

Philadelphia 76ers: Brandon Ingram, F, Duke

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Ben Simmons may be the most upside-laden prospect in this year’s draft, but the Philadelphia 76ers need to start shifting away from the best-player-available strategy and focus on filling some gaping holes on their roster. 

In this case, that means opting for Duke’s Brandon Ingram over Simmons should they wind up with the first pick on May 17. 

Not only are the Sixers stacked with frontcourt options in Jahlil Okafor, Joel Embiid and Nerlens Noel, but 2014 stash pick Dario Saric may finally be bound for the States. Citing a source, Bleacher Report’s David Pick reported that Saric “told his teammates he intends to leave Europe” this summer and head to the City of Brotherly Love. 

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And considering Saric is a hybrid forward like Simmons who can handle the rock, Ingram would be the most logical addition for a Sixers team that finished the 2015-16 season ranked last in offensive rating, 29th in field-goal percentage and 24th in three-point conversion rate. 

With face-up skills, catch-and-shoot prowess and the ability to blow past defenders in the half court with long …

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