Analyses predicting player selection in the National Basketball Association’s annual player entry event for the year 2016 provide a snapshot of perceived talent and team needs prior to the actual event. These projections, created by various analysts and media outlets, attempt to foresee the order in which eligible players will be chosen by each of the NBA’s franchises. For example, one published forecast may have predicted Ben Simmons to be the first overall pick by the Philadelphia 76ers, while another suggested a different player for that top selection.
These predictive exercises serve multiple purposes. They offer a valuable resource for fans interested in understanding the potential future of their favorite teams. Additionally, they provide a benchmark against which to evaluate the accuracy and insight of draft analysts. Furthermore, the forecasts reflect the prevailing opinions of scouts, general managers, and other basketball experts regarding player skill, potential, and fit within the league, offering a glimpse into the league’s evaluation process at a specific point in time.