Toronto Raptors work out intriguing Maryland prospect Aaron Wiggins
By Mike Luciano
The Toronto Raptors might use one of their two second-round picks in this draft to add even more depth and quality to their backcourt irrespective of the direction they go in at pick No. 4. This prerogative could help Maryland guard Aaron Wiggins earn himself a selection around the middle of Round 2.
Wiggins, currently ranked as the 64th best player in the draft by ESPN, decided to keep his name in the draft, rather than return to Mark Turgeon and the Terrapins. Could this be a sign he likes what he has heard from the NBA?
Wiggins, who is not related to native Canadian and Raptors trade target Andrew Wiggins, averaged 14.5 points and 5.8 rebounds per game last year, all while making 44% of his attempts from the field and 35% of his 3-point shots. the offensive potential is evident, and Wiggins is making a go of it in the pros.
Not only did Wiggins confirm that he is keeping his name in the draft, but his agent said that he already conducted a pre-draft workout with the Raptors on Monday. Could this be a sign that if he is available in the middle of the second round, Toronto might decide to pounce on him and make him the newest Raptor?
Could the Toronto Raptors draft Aaron Wiggins?
Wiggins’ value lies in his shooting, as spotting up and making plays off the dribble are both areas in which he excels. Able to use his 6-6 frame to post up smaller players and assert his will down in the paint, Wiggins offers guard/forward versatility on offense.
On defense, Wiggins plays with enough effort to cause some real problems for smaller guards that can’t blow by him. With enough training and coaching around him, he could easily end up being able to guard anywhere from the point guard position to the small forward spot given his gangly frame.
Wiggins’ struggles come when it is time to generate offense for himself. In addition to being a somewhat streaky shooter over the course of his college career, Wiggins must answer questions about his propensity for ill-advised shots, lack of playmaking ability, and his turnover problems.
Wiggins may not have as high a ceiling as players that could be taken around this range, but his style of play is conducive to someone who aims to assert himself in the rotation quickly. With two picks, the Raptors can both add a raw toolsy player and someone that might be more pro-ready.