The Raptors lack muscle, especially a power forward that can dominate in the paint and help the team with rebounds. This franchise is set with scoring play-makers, but to compete for a title, more size and strength in the paint is necessary.
This is an early look at next year’s draft and players that could possibly help. Despite the NCAA Basketball season yet to start, scouts and general managers already have a good grasp on the talent available. Here’s the latest mock draft information and who the experts expect Toronto to select with their two first round picks.
The Raptors should get a pick early in the opening round and that selection will come from New York or Denver. The Draft Room has projected Cheick Diallo of Kansas in this spot. The 6’9″ power forward is already being compared to a young Emeka Okafor, but with more explosive speed around the basket.
Diallo will need to improve his post moves while with the Jayhawks, but with his leaping ability and overall athleticism, he would be a great addition with the Raptors and the type of player that could help on both ends of the court.
The team’s second selection will depend on how they finish the season. NBA experts are already figuring that pick to come in around the 20-24 spot in the first round.
With most of the elite talent off the board, it’s time to look for experienced college players with some upside. Nigel Hayes fits the mold and the junior at Wisconsin has plenty of big game experience. At 6’8″ and 235 pounds, Hayes doesn’t have a prototypical power forwards build, but he does everything needed on a basketball court to win games and that never hurts when adding talent to a roster.
