NBA Summer League star Nerlens Noel was probably the biggest dropper in the 2013 NBA Draft. He was projected as high as first overall, but an injury made him plummet all the way to 6^th, to the Philadelphia 76ers.

It might turn out to be a blessing in disguise for him as he was given ample time to rest, and the Sixers, who were actually tanking, let him sit out the whole year. Thus, his official rookie season would be this year, and it might give the Sixers a chance to have back-to-back winners (Michael Carter-Williams won the award for last season).

His commitment to becoming a defensive monster will separate him from the hyped draftees from 2014. He will also be the only dominant center, since Joel Embiid, who is also with the Sixers, will take his place among the injured centers' row.

He had an interview with ESPN:

"Q:When did you first realize, growing up, the impact you could have on a game as a shot-blocker?

Nerlens Noel: I would say early on in youth leagues. Being able to make a difference defensively was probably a natural gift. I've been able to utilize it, even as far as getting steals.

Q: How much of that is anticipation or instincts as opposed to physical tools?

NN: It definitely is a lot of anticipation and instinct. I've always been hard on myself to be very mobile on the defensive end. I just try to make sure I do as much as I can to help my team win, whether it's steals, blocks, rebounds, points or assists."

Make no mistake; Noel is physically gifted for defense. He even has the imposing look down pat.

Bleacher Report made early projections on possible candidates for Rookie of the Year based on Summer League performance. While it is statistically invalid, it can serve as an early indicator. They ranked Noel no. 1 because:

"Noel tallied 19 points, four steals and three assists in his first summer league game. Over his next two games, he scored a combined 22 points, collected 15 rebounds and notched eight blocks. He averaged just 25 minutes over the course of those three games in Orlando.

In his first Vegas outing, another four blocks."

The Sixers patient rebuilding program could help Noel as it helped Carter-Williams. He is expected to start and play major minutes and they won't crucify him for the team's losses. Noel may upstage the 2014 Rookie stars the way Blake Griffin outshone John Wall and the class of 2010.