Raptors: 3 bold predictions for Christian Koloko in 2022-23
By Mike Luciano
2. Score 6.0 points per game
Koloko will be an excellent defender that the Raptors can eventually watch blossom, but even the most optimistic Koloko fans out there will tell you that he needs some instruction on the offensive end. His string defensive play in Summer League was marred by poor efficiency.
Koloko needs to work on his ability to finish from 15 feet inside, though he has an array of post moves that could help him eventually become a quality offensive player. While his 3-point shot is exceedingly raw right now, the Raptors will likely have that issue fixed within the next few years.
Christian Koloko needs to get better on offense.
Koloko could pile up the points as a rebounder and put-back artist if nothing else. He’ll need to focus on working close to the basket in the NBA while using his expected 905 time to eventually become a big man worthy of being deployed in Nick Nurse’s challenging offense.
After half of one season, Precious Achiuwa went from a total non-factor as a shooter to someone who was rising up from deep with ease. Even if Koloko doesn’t take to that as quickly as Achiuwa did, Nurse will likely have him ready to score sooner rather than later.