Philadelphia 76ers Considering Trade Down From No. 3 Pick in NBA Draft

By Edcel Panganiban June 13, 2025 11:55

As the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, the Philadelphia 76ers find themselves at a pivotal decision point with the third overall pick. After a disappointing 25-57 season, the Sixers secured this high draft position through lottery luck, but recent reports suggest they are seriously considering trading down from No. 3 to maximize value and flexibility.

Initially, Rutgers wing Ace Bailey was widely viewed as the presumptive choice for the Sixers at No. 3. Bailey, a freshman with a 54.0 true shooting percentage, has drawn comparisons to Paul George due to his size, athleticism, and two-way potential. However, since Philadelphia moved up two spots on lottery night, Bailey has become a polarizing prospect, leading the team to broaden its draft focus. Baylor guard VJ Edgecombe has emerged as a strong candidate, impressing the Sixers with his work ethic and shooting prowess during private workouts.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported that Philadelphia is targeting Edgecombe and has held workouts with Bailey as well, indicating an openness to multiple prospects. Moreover, the Sixers have engaged in trade talks with the San Antonio Spurs, who hold the No. 2 pick, signaling a potential move up rather than just trading down. This suggests the Sixers are actively exploring all avenues to land their preferred player, whether by moving up or down.

The rationale behind considering a trade down is multifaceted. By moving down a few spots, Philadelphia could acquire additional draft assets or young players to bolster its roster depth. This strategy aligns with the Sixers’ need to balance short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability, especially given uncertainties surrounding Joel Embiid’s health and Paul George’s status. With Embiid expected to return healthy and George anticipated back next season, the Sixers aim to complement their stars with high-upside young talent.

Among the prospects in the mix, Texas guard Tre Johnson is also gaining attention. Though considered a reach by some due to his rawness and defensive limitations, Johnson’s elite shooting ability has intrigued evaluators. His potential as a “nuclear shooter” could fill a needed niche in Philadelphia’s offense.

The Sixers’ front office, led by President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey, is known for its analytical approach and willingness to make bold moves. Trading down from No. 3 could yield multiple assets, a strategy Morey has employed successfully in the past. As Michael Scotto of HoopsHype noted, Philadelphia’s draft mindset is flexible: “They’re keeping the pick, or they’re trading down a few slots”.

The draft’s depth beyond the top two picks is less certain, with some top talents like Cooper Flagg expected to go early and others slipping due to NCAA NIL dynamics. This uncertainty makes the Sixers’ decision even more critical, as selecting the wrong prospect could set back their rebuilding timeline.

The Philadelphia 76ers are weighing a trade down from the No. 3 pick as part of a broader strategy to maximize draft value and roster flexibility. With prospects like Ace Bailey, VJ Edgecombe, and Tre Johnson under consideration, and potential trade talks with the Spurs underway, the Sixers are keeping their options open. This measured approach reflects a franchise intent on building a sustainable contender around Embiid and George, balancing immediate needs with long-term growth. The coming weeks will reveal whether Philadelphia stays put or reshapes its draft position in pursuit of a brighter future.