3 Summer League players to watch as Raptors start schedule

1. Christian Koloko

Even though Koloko might not have as much immediate playing time as some of his 2022 NBA Draft compatriots, the Raptors thought so highly of him that they decided to use their only draft capital early in the second round on him. Fans will finally get a taste of what he’s made of in Vegas.

Koloko’s offense will be what Ujiri and Summer League coach Trevor Gleeson will focus on. We know he can move and defend, but can Koloko develop an offensive game outside of dunker spot finishing that appeals to this coaching staff? Answering in the affirmative would be a game-changer.

Christian Koloko will put on a show for the Toronto Raptors.

Koloko will have to compete with Pascal Siakam, DJ Wilson, and Khem Birch for minutes at the center spot. Taking the slower, steadier path when it comes to developing him is not a bad strategy, but he could burst onto the scene and demand more playing time if he starts strong in Vegas.

Koloko was widely regarded as a first-round pick who luckily fell to No. 33 overall, so Toronto needs to figure out ways to get him on the floor in the last few years. Adding a 7-1 dynamo to a team who lacked height in the frontcourt last year will give Nurse more lineup flexibility.