For the first time following the Sixers’ acquisition of the No. 3 pick in last month’s NBA draft lottery, ESPN analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo are projecting Baylor guard V.J. Edgecombe as the likely selection. This marks a shift from earlier predictions that favored Rutgers forward Ace Bailey for that spot.
Givony highlights that Edgecombe left a notably positive impression during his visit to Philadelphia, while Bailey had initially scheduled no meetings with the Sixers. Although Bailey has since agreed to a workout with the team later this week, concerns linger regarding his enthusiasm about developing in Philadelphia’s basketball program.
Despite his potential, Bailey has yet to schedule any workout sessions and has reportedly declined invitations from various teams in the draft range. Sources indicate that his camp believes he is among the top three prospects but seeks a situation conducive to rapid development and playing time. This has led to speculation that he might have received a commitment from a team outside the top five that he perceives as offering a more favorable environment for his growth.
In their latest mock draft, Givony and Woo suggest that Bailey could fall to the Washington Wizards at No. 6. Both the Wizards and New Orleans Pelicans, picking at No. 7, are rumored to be very interested in Bailey’s potential, with the belief that they could provide him more immediate playing time than Philadelphia can.
This presents an intriguing dynamic as the NBA draft approaches. Fans can look forward to seeing how the opportunities for these players unfold and which teams will ultimately benefit from their talents.