Philadelphia 76ers: Grading How Philly Fared in the 2012 NBA Draft

The NBA draft concluded yesterday and the Philadelphia 76ers were one of a couple teams that ended up with two first-rounders. In getting Moe Harkless and Arnett Moultrie, the team addressed holes on the roster with quality talent and got younger.

The Sixers might not have gotten household names, but rest assured, Harkless and Moultrie will make an impact. Read on for a grading of each pick and a overall draft grade for the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2012 NBA draft.

No. 15 Pick: SF Moe Harkless, St. John's

Grade: B

Harkless is not the shooter the team was looking for, but his athleticism and defensive potential were too much to pass up. Harkless is 6'8," but his 7'0" wingspan gives him the ability to play much bigger then he really is.

Harkless needs to work on developing a consistent three-point shot, but in the meantime, his ability to defend and run the floor will earn him time at the two and three. This is the kind of pick that could really pay off for the Sixers because Harkless has all the physical gifts—it's just up to him to develop his skill set.

No. 27 Pick: PF Arnett Moultrie, Mississippi State

Grade: B+

Arnett Moultrie could have gone in the lower lottery, but his stock seemed to fall unexpectedly and he ended up being drafted by the Miami Heat with the 27th pick. The Heat subsequently traded the pick to the 76ers for the 45th pick and a future first-rounder.

Moultrie is the kind of frontcourt athlete that creates matchup nightmares for opposing coaches as his length and athleticism make him a hassle to deal with in fast break situations. He does tend to settle for jumpers too often, but the touch is there and could help him get more playing time.

The Sixers get a higher grade for this selection based on the value of getting a lottery talent in the lower half of the first round.

Overall Draft Grade and Outlook

Overall Grade: B

Overall, it wasn't a bad draft for the Philadelphia 76ers. They got two premium athletes that will only help on defense and could develop into solid offensive options if the work is put in. Harkless give the team added depth to an already deep backcourt, and Moultrie helps fortify a frontcourt desperate for athleticism.

Look back at these two in a couple years, and the Sixers could have gotten two steals if they both play to their potential.