76ers Mock Draft: Philly projected to add big man in second, superstar at third overall

The 76ers might be cooking up something special in the 2025 NBA Draft. According to Cyro Asseo de Choch’s latest mock draft for HoopsHype, the Sixers are poised to snag two potential difference-makers: Ryan Kalkbrenner in the second round and Ace Bailey with the third overall pick.

76ers’ Second-Round Steal: Ryan Kalkbrenner

Second-round picks are a total coin flip in the NBA. One minute you’re stashing a guy in the G League, the next he’s in the rotation giving you real minutes. That’s where Ryan Kalkbrenner comes in.

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The Creighton big man was a beast this past season, averaging 19.2 points and 8.7 rebounds while shooting a jaw-dropping 65% from the field. A five-year college vet, Kalkbrenner brings that rare combo of polish and plug-and-play ability. Nick Nurse would have to let him learn on the fly, sure, but this guy can give you real minutes in the second unit right away.

76ers’ Top Pick: Ace Bailey’s High Ceiling

While Kalkbrenner offers immediate impact, the 76ers’ big swing is Ace Bailey at No. 3 overall. Bailey’s got all the physical tools you dream about – elite size, a silky shooting stroke, and he’s lethal in transition.

The catch? Shot selection. He loves those contested mid-range jumpers a little too much and doesn’t always create separation like he should. But if the 76ers can smooth out the rough edges, Bailey could be a game-changer next to Tyrese Maxey and Jared McCain.

Daryl Morey’s Draft Night Plans

Rumors have been swirling that Daryl Morey might flip the third overall pick to bring in a proven vet, especially with the 76ers looking to contend. But Morey shut that down in a recent chat on NBC Sports Philly’s “Take Off Podcast,” saying the plan is to use the pick.

According to Morey, this class has some of the best top-of-the-draft talent he’s seen since he started in the NBA. Of course, nothing’s ever set in stone until Adam Silver reads the name at the podium. If the 76ers get a trade offer that’s too juicy to pass up, you never know. But for now, it’s full steam ahead on adding another young stud to the rotation.

So here we are – the 76ers holding the third overall pick and early in the second round, staring down a chance to reload with youth. If this mock holds true, they’re getting a ready-made big man in Kalkbrenner and a raw but tantalizing wing in Bailey. It’s not a complete retool, but it’s a nice shot in the arm for a team that wants to keep the championship window open, even if Joel Embiid and Paul George have to miss time.

Stay tuned, Philly – the 76ers might just be loading up for another run.