76ers Draft: Replacing Allen Iverson in Philadelphia

For the first time in 11 seasons, the Philadelphia 76ers face life without Allen Iverson.

In the 2007 Draft, Sixers GM Billy King will look to address the mediocrity of the team by bringing in someone the fans can get behind.

With the 12th and 21st picks, the Sixers are already in a position to add value—but don't be surprised if they cut a deal to crack the top 10.

What we do know is that Philadelphia has options if they really want to move up. A pick-for-pick swap with a team looking to move down could get the Sixers as high as eight. If they want more than that, they'll almost certainly have to give up number 21—and maybe next year's first-rounder to boot.

Another problem for the Sixers is that Andre Iguodala becomes a free agent after the 2008 season, and it's very likely he'll be fishing for a big payday. King and Co. have to determine the likelihood of Iguodala's re-signing with the club—and consider including him in trade talks if they think he's ready to bolt.

Reports have the Sixers extremely interested in Georgetown forward Jeff Green and Chinese big man Yi Jianlian. The Chicago Bulls, who own the ninth pick, have also expressed interest in both players, which could factor heavily into King's ultimate decision on moving up.

There's been talk that Minnesota may be willing to part with the seventh pick, but word is that the Timberwolves would want both of Philly's first-rounders.

Atlanta (third pick) and Charlotte (eighth pick) are other possible trading partners. Boston is also looking to deal at number five.

Again—the Sixers have options here.

My advice to King: If you can move up to get either Green or Jianlian, it may well be worth it.

I would also look to pick a leader—someone to fill the heart-and-soul void left by Iverson. And while you're at it, it's probably time to ask whether Samuel Dalembert is ever going to reach his potential—and to look to move him if the answer is no.

The bottom line is that the Sixers need to make a splash on Thursday—for the team, of course, but also for the fans.

A.I. took Philly's identity with him when he left. King needs to show the Sixers faithful that he's committed to turning this club around...or he needs to start looking for a new job.

This is Philadelphia, after all.