AnySelected

The 2008 NBA Draft is often remembered for the selections of Russell Westbrook, Derrick Rose, and Kevin Durant. But what if history had unfolded differently? HoopsHype recently conducted a fascinating re-draft of the 2008 class, and the results offer a compelling 'what if' scenario for the Philadelphia 76ers. In this alternate reality, the Sixers bypass potential starters and future role players to select Mario Chalmers, the tenacious point guard who would go on to win two NBA championships with the Miami Heat.

Originally selected with the 34th overall pick (second round) by the Minnesota Timberwolves, who then traded him to the Miami Heat, Chalmers quickly established himself as a reliable and clutch performer. His grit, defensive intensity, and surprising scoring ability made him a vital piece of the Heat's championship runs alongside LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Imagine the impact he could have had in Philadelphia.

Why Chalmers at No. 16? At the time, the Sixers were searching for a point guard to complement Andre Iguodala. While Iguodala was a versatile defender and slasher, the team lacked a true floor general who could consistently create scoring opportunities and control the tempo. Chalmers, even as a younger player, possessed those qualities. He was a fearless competitor, willing to take (and make) big shots, and his ability to push the pace would have added a new dimension to the Sixers' offense.

The Alternative Selections: Looking back at the actual 2008 draft, the Sixers initially selected Joe Smith with the 16th pick. While Smith had moments of promise, he ultimately didn't live up to the expectations of a mid-first-round selection. Other players chosen around that slot included Taj Gibson, Ryan Anderson, and Patty Mills – all solid NBA players, but none with the championship pedigree and consistent impact of Chalmers.

Impact on the Sixers' Trajectory: The addition of Chalmers could have significantly altered the Sixers' trajectory in the late 2000s and early 2010s. A more reliable point guard could have unlocked Iguodala's offensive potential further and provided a steadying presence during crucial playoff moments. While the Sixers did make a run to the Eastern Conference Semifinals in 2012, having Chalmers alongside them might have propelled them to greater heights, potentially even a championship appearance.

Beyond the Championships: It’s not just about the rings. Chalmers’ work ethic and competitive spirit would have been infectious within the Sixers’ locker room. His defensive tenacity would have complemented the team’s existing strengths, and his ability to handle pressure would have been invaluable in high-stakes situations. He was a player who consistently elevated the performance of those around him.

HoopsHype's re-draft highlights a fascinating possibility: the Sixers, by selecting Mario Chalmers at No. 16, could have secured a key piece to a potential championship puzzle. It’s a reminder that draft decisions, even seemingly minor ones, can have a profound impact on a franchise’s future.