Raptors: Winners and Losers as first half of 2022-23 season ends
By Mike Luciano
Winner: Christian Koloko
The Raptors likely drafted Koloko with the expectation that he would take a little time to get fully revved up in the NBA, as the Arizona alum was a tremendous defensive player who lacked a versatile offensive style. Instead, Koloko has proven to the rest of the NBA that it was a mistake to let him fall as far as he did.
Koloko has averaged 3.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks per game. While those might not sound like world-beating numbers, the fact that he’s been able to protect the rim and make the Raptors’ aggressive defense much more effective the minute he steps on the floor is a sign that he has long-term starter potential.
Christian Koloko has exceeded expectations for the Toronto Raptors.
The only second-round pick that has outperformed Koloko so far is Indiana’s Andrew Nembhard, who was off the board before him at pick No. 31. While Koloko does need to become a better finisher to keep pace with the rest of his rookies, the fact he’s hit a few jumpers in the last few games shows that he’s getting more comfortable.
The Raptors have been linked to several of the best available centers on the market in the last few weeks, but Koloko has been playing so well that it might be worth it to let it ride with the young gun. Koloko will be a big part of Toronto’s future if he keeps improving.