Philadelphia Sixers: Maurice Harkless Lands in City of Brotherly Love

With the 15th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft, the Philadelphia Sixers selected small forward Maurice “Moe” Harkless from St. John’s University.

The 19-year-old forward brings to the Sixers his 6’9” height, incredible wingspan and other intangibles that will enable him to mesh with the nucleus of the team.

According to Draftexpress.com, Harkless gathered 15.5 points, 8.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game in his sole year at St. John’s.

His style of play can be equated to Andre Iguodala or Thaddeus Young.

When Sixers General Manager Rod Thorn was asked why he picked Harkless, he responded by saying that Harkless was the best player on the board and his potential was too attractive to overlook.

Harkless’ evident downfall is that he doesn’t have the physical stature of a dominant forward. Moreover, his jump shot is inconsistent and his ball-handling skills are limited. If he bulks up, establishes a jump shot and improves his ball-handling skills, he will become a versatile, inside-out player for the team.

Andre Iguodala’s Fate

This move tonight by the Sixers could have just sealed the fate for Andre Iguodala. Iguodala has underperformed since he was drafted by the 76ers. He just could not replace the void left by the other “A.I.”—Allen Iverson.

Iguodala disappeared during many games last season, but he is notorious for his pressure defense on the league’s best players. He also stepped up during the playoffs last season. Whether or not he did enough to cement his name into the Sixers roster next season is still uncertain.

Iguodala has two years left on his contract, worth approximately $29 million.