Toronto Raptors: Best and Worst case scenarios for 2021 rookies

Justin Champagnie

Undrafted Free Agent

While we don’t yet know if the former Pitt Panther has an NBA-caliber game, Champagnie was a double-double machine against some tough ACC foes, and the energy and effort he brings are guaranteed to stand out.

Best Case Scenario

You may recall that the Raptors have had some success going the undrafted free agent route before. Even if Champagnie doesn’t become the next Fred VanVleet, it’s certainly plausible that he could leapfrog a few other training camp hopefuls. I

f the 20-year-old remains a Raptor on opening night, it’ll be because he’s turned heads, and probably vexed opponents, with his hustle, masterful ability to snag rebounds, tidy interior finishing, and improved jumper. Getting some NBA minutes is by no means out of the question, nor is the idea of him wiggling into the rotation.

The Toronto Raptors could be intrigued by Justin Champagnie’s motor.

Worst Case Scenario

Champagnie has wing size at 6-6 and just over 200 pounds, but lacks the complimentary offensive game. For as easy as it is to get behind a guy with a high motor, he didn’t hear his name called on draft night because there’s doubt that he can hold his own in the NBA without a very reliable jumper or the ability to create for himself.

Fortunately for the Raptors, finding out if he has what it takes doesn’t come with many risks. He can easily be cut loose if needed.

When it comes to these four rookies, playing opportunities will factor heavily into just how much these scenarios can be realized in year one.