Raptors should look to improve wing depth in draft
The Toronto Raptors have been busy with the NBA trade deadline approaching. But we shouldn’t forget about the draft.
Toronto could still be looking to make more moves. Acquiring Serge Ibaka from Orlando cost Toronto some bench depth at the 2 and the 3 with the departure of Terrence Ross. His shooting and length had long been considered an asset for the team.
There is a strong possibility that the Raptors decide to not make a move due to the team being top 10 in 3 point percentage and adding another above average shooter in Ibaka. Making a trade could hurt other areas and there is a lack of talent in the buyout market.
The upcoming NBA draft is one of the best in years and can help Toronto save money rather than overpaying for a shooter during the offseason. The Raptors still own the better of the clippers first round pick and their own.
Terrance Ferguson
Similar name and similar game to former Raptor guard/forward, Terrence Ross.
Terrance Ferguson is a 6’7 SG/SF who currently plays for the Adelaide 36ers in Australia. His strengths include his athleticism and his shooting ability. His size and length also increases his defensive potential allowing him to guard different positions.
It would make sense for the Raptors to fill the Terrence Ross role with someone who is nearly an exact replica of him. However, they both share similar weaknesses.
Although his length and size match up with some small forwards and undersized power forwards, he may struggle to contain stronger forwards. The average weight for a shooting guard is roughly 210-215lbs, Ferguson weighs around 180lbs. It would be difficult to give him meaningful minutes at shooting guard after opening up minutes for Norman Powell. However keep in mind, he is only 18 and still has time for development.
Miles Bridges
With Norman Powell only being 6’4 and Bruno Caboclo lacking the necessary strength and skill to keep up with traditional small forwards, the Raptors could use a wing capable of playing against the taller and stronger small forwards when DeMarre Carroll is on the bench.
Miles Bridges from Michigan State at 226lbs has the strength to play against most traditional forwards. His size and athleticism will also allow him to shift over to power forward if the raptors decide to go small. This can be very useful considering that 3 of the 4 power forwards on the team will be free agents.
Miles is an excellent finisher due to his ambidexterity and athletic ability. He also is seen as a solid passer for his position. However, his ball handling and shooting may be an issue.
Although he has made significant strides towards his jump shot, he needs to work on his consistency. Improving his ball handling would also be considered an asset for someone who can finish with both their left and right hand. DeMarre Carroll, Patrick Patterson, Kyle Lowry, and Serge Ibaka are some of the great shooters on Toronto who can help.
Josh Hart
Kyle Lowry is eligible to become a free agent next year and the Raptors will try to satisfy his needs when he opts out of his contract. One thing that Lowry has mentioned on numerous occasions is Villanova’s recent success and the play of Josh Hart. Re-signing Kyle Lowry may not be difficult to do, but Josh Hart could be worth a look.
Josh Hart is one of the most efficient guards in the NCAA; he’s shooting over 50% from the field. In addition, he brings a strong basketball IQ and defensive instincts. These skills can be useful at the next level to go with his experience as a senior who has won a championship.
Josh Hart being 22 in March may hurt his upside, and his athleticism does not match up to other guards/forwards. However, Toronto would probably prefer to acquire someone who can play right away rather than a long term project. His length and size could be a concern when guarding bigger players, but he also has a high IQ on defense.
What do you think about these potential targets? Comment below with more suggestions and I will be sure to take a look.