2018 NBA Mock Draft: Time for the Final Four

During Markelle Fultz’s two-game return to the lineup following a hellish season of rehabilitation, he has fit seamlessly into the Sixers’ fluid, up-tempo offense. They play that way even more when the bench is on the court, and Fultz’s ability to drive into the lane and make plays for Philly’s shooters has been incredible considering his length absence.

Fultz has 15 assists through two contests, and Philadelphia is shooting 22-60 from 3 since his return, which is slightly above their season average. The team will have to sort out whether or not he can play with fellow rookie Ben Simmons, a massive question for the future of the roster, but for now he is showing the talent that made him the No. 1 pick, a massive step forward after a disastrous first few months in the league.

That stylistic fit brings us to Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, someone who, for all intents and purposes, is a very similar player to Fultz. The freshman has an incredible feel for the game, an effective driving game and tons of defensive potential. He fits, in my imagination, better than Fultz does with Simmons. But if it’s problematic to have two non-shooting point guards on one team, three is a disaster.

So this pick is made under the assumption that one of three things happens: the Sixers trade Fultz; Fultz improves his 3-point shot; or Simmons improves his jumper. Considering Gilgeous-Alexander’s talent, it’s a bet worth making.