4 SEC prospects the Toronto Raptors can select in 2022 NBA Draft

A North Carolina transfer, Kessler was so dominant that he nearly averaged five blocks per game last year. A quality rebounder and the best shot-blocker in the country, Kessler might not be available at 33. Masai Ujiri will need to move up to get a rim protector with his level of defensive skill.

Kessler’s 7-1 frame will make him a nice dunker spot candidate and roll-man that the Raptors have often lacked this season. His finishing was much better at Auburn. When a more traditional center is required, moving up to get Kessler might be enough to make sure that Toronto can defend the paint.

Walker Kessler would vastly improve the Toronto Raptors’ defense.

Kessler is not going to be a very advanced offensive player in his rookie season. His attempts at getting a jumper down pat were largely underwhelming, and that might not be enough to get teams interested in him. He’s not an amazing athlete to add insult to injury.

Kessler was named the best defensive player in college basketball, which should serve as even more evidence that the shot-blocking will translate to the pros. Even if he never becomes an offensive threat, getting a long-term backup that helps reinforce the defense is not a bad idea at this juncture in the NBA Draft.