What Will the Sixers Do with That No. 3 Pick? 2025 NBA Draft Decisions Loom Large in Philly

With the 2025 NBA Draft just around the corner, all eyes are laser-focused on what the Philadelphia 76ers are cooking up with the No. 3 overall pick. This isn’t just a regular top-three selection—this one could be a franchise-altering moment, depending on how Philly plays it.

The buzz surrounding the Sixers' draft war room is electric, and honestly? Nobody outside the building has a real clue what Daryl Morey and company are planning. And that unpredictability is only adding fuel to the speculation fire.

The Big Question: Trade It or Keep It?

Here's the thing—Philadelphia’s front office is at a bit of a crossroads. On one hand, they’ve got a golden opportunity to snag one of the top young prospects in this year’s draft class. On the other hand, trading down for more assets could be the smarter move if they’re thinking long-term sustainability and depth.

So, what’s the move? Stick and pick, or trade down and bulk up on value?

The Sixers’ need for a youthful injection is glaring. Despite having a legit championship-contending roster with MVP Joel Embiid, the newly added Paul George, and rising star Tyrese Maxey, it’s no secret they’re leaning heavily on veterans. That top-three pick could bring much-needed energy, upside, and a cost-controlled player into the mix for the future.

Some Names to Watch: Young Blood with Star Potential

Let’s talk names. While nothing is confirmed, some intriguing prospects have already worked out for the Sixers, and that list gives us a small peek into the organization’s possible direction.

Here’s who’s confirmed to have worked out in Philly:

• VJ Edgecombe, Baylor – A high-energy wing with serious athleticism and slashing ability. His stock is rising fast.

• Hunter Dickinson, Kansas – Big, bruising, and polished. But a more traditional center—likely not a fit unless there's a trade brewing.

• John Blackwell, Wisconsin – A solid guard prospect who is actually returning to college, so he's not in the draft mix anymore.

So while the workout list isn’t massive, it gives us a feel that the Sixers are definitely looking for wing help or possibly another dynamic scorer.

And of course, there’s Rutgers standout Ace Bailey, whose name keeps swirling around Sixers draft chatter. If he’s still on the board at No. 3, Philly could pull the trigger and make him their next young star-in-the-making. He’s versatile, can defend multiple positions, and has a motor that never quits.

Why This Pick Matters So Much

Here’s the deal: This isn't just about filling a roster spot. This pick is about threading a very tricky needle—competing now while building for the future.

That’s no easy task.

Joel Embiid is still one of the most dominant forces in basketball, and with the addition of Paul George, who brings elite perimeter defense and shot creation, the Sixers should be in win-now mode. And let's not overlook Tyrese Maxey, who has blossomed into a legitimate All-Star guard and is just entering his prime.

The problem? Depth, age, and flexibility. The Sixers need a youth boost badly, but they can’t afford to take a raw prospect who might not help for two seasons. That means the guy they draft has to be NBA-ready—or they need to find a creative trade partner who values that pick more than they do.

Could a Trade Actually Be the Move?

It’s a very real possibility.

Daryl Morey has never been shy about making bold moves. If Philly can trade down and still land a talented rotation piece while picking up an additional first-rounder or valuable veteran, that could tilt the scales toward contention and sustainability.

Let’s say, for example, the Sixers fall in love with a player projected to go No. 6 or 7 instead. Why not slide down a few spots, still get their guy, and grab a future asset in the process? It’s the kind of savvy maneuver that championship teams make when they’re balancing win-now pressure with long-term goals.

Fans Are Divided—And That’s Okay

You’ve got one group of fans screaming, “We need fresh legs and a long-term piece! Draft the best player available!” Then you’ve got another crew chanting, “Trade it! We’re so close—get someone who helps us win a ring this year!”

Honestly, both camps make good points.

There’s no consensus No. 1 in this draft, which makes the board feel wide open once you get past the top pick. That puts pressure on the front office to not just pick a good player—but to pick the right one for this team’s current window.

How Do the Workouts Factor In?

Pre-draft workouts don’t always tell the whole story, but they do give insight into which players a team is seriously considering. Edgecombe’s presence on the list is notable. He’s a two-way wing who can make an immediate impact, and those are tough to come by.

Dickinson is more of a mystery—he’s a traditional big man with college experience, but his fit alongside Embiid is questionable unless the Sixers are thinking about a major shakeup. Still, it might just be due diligence.

Blackwell’s return to school pretty much crosses him off the list, but his inclusion shows Philly’s looking at guards with upside.

Offseason Outlook: Beyond Just the Draft

Let’s not forget—the draft is only part of the offseason equation. The Sixers are also dealing with salary cap decisions, potential trades, and free agency. Adding George already shifts the team's identity, and any rookie they bring in needs to fit around a core that’s already got some established stars.

The idea here isn't just to get younger—it’s to get smarter, faster, and more complete as a team.

Final Thoughts: The Pressure Is Real

When you’re holding the No. 3 overall pick in a year without a clear top-three hierarchy, you better nail it—or at least make it count in the trade market. The Sixers are in a sweet-but-dangerous spot. They’ve got the tools to contend now and a chance to strengthen their future.

That’s a rare combo in today’s NBA.

Whether they end up with Ace Bailey, VJ Edgecombe, or flip the pick for a win-now vet, one thing’s for sure: this offseason will shape the Sixers’ next five years.

So buckle up, Sixers fans—because Philly is officially on the clock.

🔥 Quick Pointers Recap:

• 🧠 No. 3 pick could shape Philly’s future—major pressure on front office

• 💥 Prospects include VJ Edgecombe and Ace Bailey

• 🔁 Trade down? Still on the table

• 🧓 Veteran core: Embiid, George, Maxey

• 🔍 Youth injection needed—but it’s got to fit the win-now window

• ⏳ Draft + free agency = a defining offseason