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The Phoenix Suns drafted DeAndre Ayton first overall in the 2018 NBA Draft, but as it turned out, they weren’t finished with the lottery. Phoenix also owned the 16th pick, which they traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for 10th overall pick Mikal Bridges. Philadelphia also receives Zhaire Smith and the Miami Heat’s 2021 first-round pick in the deal.
Sources: Suns have traded Zhaire Smith and 2021 Miami first-rounder to 76ers for Mikal Bridges.
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 22, 2018
The NBA has announced that the current “one and done” draft rule may end in 2021, creating a “super draft” containing the best of two high school classes.
Bridges, a 6’7 swingman, scored 17.7 ppg, driving Villanova to an NCAA Championship. 6’5 guard Smith averaged 11.3 for Texas Tech this year.
Update:
Apparently this was a close call.
Crazy final minutes Suns were selecting DiVincenzo but got trade call from Philly and instead made trade with Philly for Mikal Bridges
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) June 22, 2018
And it could be great for the Sixers.
The Sixers acquiring an unprotected 2021 first round pick essentially restocks its cupboard after yielding the Kings' 2019 pick to Boston a year ago, drastically improving its assets to offer San Antonio in a potential Kawhi Leonard deal. https://t.co/d2XWALZ8b6
— Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) June 22, 2018