The Toronto Raptors own three picks for the 2021 NBA Draft. They may wish to consider using one on a Canadian baller that’s turning heads. The draft order won’t be set until the conclusion of the season but it’s never too early for the Raptors scouts to get their rankings in order.
This will be an important draft for the team, which is looking to build up its talent and find a way back into the upper echelon of the NBA.
In order to do that, the Raptors may consider keeping a close eye on some local talent. There are a small handful of Canadian players who may make themselves eligible for the upcoming draft, each with their own useful talents. One player stands out above the rest.
Toronto owns their own first-round pick for the 2021 NBA Draft, but sold their second-round selection in a package with center Greg Monroe to the Brooklyn Nets at the 2019 trade deadline for $110,000. Recognizing that it’s time for the Raptors to infuse the organization with young talent, GM Bobby Webster acquired two second-round picks at this year’s trade deadline.
Norman Powell, Matt Thomas, and Terence Davis for Gary Trent Jr, Rodney Hood, and a pair of second-round picks.
— Chris Walder (@WalderSports) March 25, 2021
All in all, I'm sold on how the Raptors ended up today.
Didn't force a Kyle Lowry trade for the sake of one, either.
The Toronto Raptors have the chance to improve in the draft.
Toronto traded Terence Davis to the Sacramento Kings for the Memphis Grizzlies’ 2021 second-round choice. They then shipped sharpshooter Matt Thomas to the Utah Jazz for the Golden State Warriors’ 2021 second-round pick. This will give the Raptors multiple opportunities to find a gem somewhere in the upcoming draft.
Ideally, the Raptors manage to pluck a Canadian with one of their three picks who can thrive under Nick Nurse. Let’s explore some of their possible choices.