As the NBA draft approaches, the focus shifts to the Philadelphia 76ers' past selections, especially the 2019 draft where they traded up to pick Matisse Thybulle at No. 20. Thybulle quickly established himself as a valuable defensive asset, averaging 1.1 blocks during the 2020-21 season and effectively guarding top perimeter players. However, his inability to consistently hit 3-point shots became a concern. Ultimately, he was traded to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2023 as part of a four-team deal that brought Jalen McDaniels to Philly. In his tenure with the Sixers, Thybulle played 245 games, contributing 4.4 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.5 steals per game. Since his move to Portland, he has shown improvement, shooting 36.8% from beyond the arc.

In a hypothetical 2019 NBA draft redo, the Philadelphia 76ers would select Goga Bitadze at the 24th pick instead of Matisse Thybulle, who they originally chose. Bitadze, a promising big man, has shown development in Orlando, averaging 6.2 points and 5.7 rebounds on an impressive 60.8% shooting. His physical playstyle could have complemented Joel Embiid effectively, providing much-needed depth at the center position.

Thybulle, while known for his elite perimeter defense, struggled with his shooting consistency before being traded to the Portland Trail Blazers. Bitadze's selection might have offered the Sixers a different strategic approach during games, potentially enhancing their bench strength and altering their postseason outcomes.

The 2025 NBA Draft is fast approaching, and UConn's Liam McNeeley is generating buzz as a likely first-round pick, projected to be chosen between 15th and 19th. McNeeley, a skilled 6'7" forward, showcased impressive high school shooting but struggled at UConn with a 31.7% accuracy from beyond the arc. Despite not receiving an initial green room invite, analysts like Kevin O'Connor project him to the Trail Blazers at 11th overall. His competitive nature and character are highly valued, and scouts believe he can regain his shooting form with the right opportunity. The draft will take place on June 25, with multiple teams eyeing McNeeley for his potential as a shooter and floor spacer in their offensive schemes.

As the NBA Draft approaches, former Texas Longhorn Arthur Kaluma is making waves during pre-draft workouts, notably with the Portland Trail Blazers. Kaluma’s performance has highlighted his solid fundamentals, impressive size, defensive versatility, and shooting skills. Averaging 12.3 points and 7.5 rebounds in his last college season, he recorded eight double-doubles, showcasing reliability on the court.

Kaluma is determined not to be overlooked, entering the draft process for the third time, now as a player with four years of collegiate experience. Despite being projected as a late second-round pick or even undrafted, his workouts have generated interest, indicating a possible spot in the NBA Summer League if he does not get drafted. His 7'1” wingspan and ability to defend multiple positions make him a valuable prospect.

The Portland Trail Blazers recently held a predraft workout featuring three promising prospects, including Maryland forward Derik Queen, who was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year after averaging 16.5 points and 9 rebounds per game. Queen helped lead the Terrapins to the Sweet 16, showcasing his scoring efficiency at 52.6% shooting. Also participating were BYU point guard Egor Demin, a Big 12 All-Freshman selection, and Cholet Basket forward Noah Penda, who displayed solid stats in the French League.

With only the 11th pick in the upcoming draft, the Blazers are evaluating multiple candidates, having previously hosted talents like Liam McNeeley from Duke and Asa Newell from Georgia. As the draft approaches, the Blazers' choices will be pivotal in building a competitive roster for next season.