Sixers select K.J. McDaniels with the No. 32 pick in 2014 NBA Draft
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The Philadelphia 76ers selected Clemson forward K.J. McDaniels with the No. 32 overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft on Thursday night.
McDaniels may be one of the best value picks in the draft this late, as he was once thought to be near the lottery bubble. It's easy to see why when you watch him play, as his game is NBA-ready and is a 3-point shot away from being more or less complete. He can score inside the line, he rebounds well, he's an elite shot blocker for a wing, and he's going to make highlight shows for his put-back dunks.
The 3-point shot, something most teams require from a three, is a minor concern, but his smooth form and great free throw shooting leave room for hope it will develop. He may not have the ultimate upside of the lottery picks in this draft, but McDaniels has what should be a solid rotation player from day one.
In getting McDaniels, the Sixers have equipped themselves with a three-and-defense player, which fits one of their needs because they have needs all over the floor. Their first round picks were spent on Joel Embiid and (eventually) Dario Saric, both of whom won't be able to fully contribute next season. This leaves McDaniels as the only player drafted by the Sixers, as of yet, who can physically play next season.