Toronto Raptors draft: 3 prospects not in NCAA Tournament to watch

Raptors draft target No. 1: Jalen Johnson, SF/PF, Duke

Johnson decided to opt out of the remainder of the 2020-21 season when it became clear that the Blue Devils weren’t going to be in the postseason. While some scouts might have an issue with that, anyone who takes that seriously is overthinking things, as Johnson looks like a star in the making.

Johnson played in just 13 games, averaging 11.2 points per game and 6.1 rebounds per contest. His 1.4 steals and blocks per game show that he can have an impact on the defensive end. His 44% percentage from 3-point range proves that his much-maligned 3-point shot is improving.

Johnson will likely end up going somewhere near the fringes of the lottery, though he could go higher if teams end up getting sold on his two-way potential. Johnson looks like a perfect fit for the Raptors.

How would Jalen Johnson help the Toronto Raptors?

While OG Anunoby might look like a perfect two-way forward given his improving offensive game, Johnson’s ceiling is much higher on that side of the floor. A 6-9 power forward with the ability to handle the ball and operate down in the post, Johnson is a very unique offensive talent.

His opt-out might actually help the Raptors out, as doing so could help Johnson slide to a point in the draft where Toronto can select him without trading up. Johnson is going to have a long NBA career, and Ujiri could make sure that career starts in Toronto.