Toronto Raptors draft: 3 Big 12 prospects to consider taking
By Mike Luciano
The Toronto Raptors will need to ensure that their 2023 Draft Class produces a winner on the court and leader off it that can help guide this team for the next half-decade, at least. That sounds like a tall order, but that is also how dire things have gotten for this squad lately.
While the Big East looks like a conference that could produce a standout player for the Raptors to select, they would be foolish to turn down the Big 12. After all, with programs like Baylor and Kansas having cut down the nets in recent years, these teams know how to get it done on the big stage.
The Raptors’ needs are very clear. They could stand to add some shooting both in the starting lineup and on the bench while also finding someone who can do a half-decent impression of an NBA point guard next to Fred VanVleet. The Big 12 can help them quench their thirsts.
Toronto Raptors draft: 3 Big 12 prospects to consider.
3. Keyontae Johnson, SF, Kansas State
After collapsing on the court and going into a medically induced coma during his Florida tenure, the fact Johnson even returned to the court is a heartwarming tale about the triumph of the human spirit. He is also a damn fine wing who could end up in Toronto if they trade back into the second round.
Johnson’s multi-positional versatility is not a joke, as he can operate as a power forward and off-ball wing due to his improved and effective 3-point shot. Johnson is built like a defensive end, which could stand to make him a bruising rebounder and defender at the NBA level.
Toronto Raptors draft: Keyontae Johnson fits a role.
On top of the fact that his medicals might take him off many teams’ boards, Johnson’s lack of high-end athletic ability will not be ideal for many teams out there. Yet another switchable forward, some in Toronto might moan and groan over Ujiri’s commitment to this philosophy.
While Johnson likely won’t have a pro career as illustrious as OG Anunoby, it’s not unfair to say he has the same body type and several of the qualities that make No. 3 such a dynamic player. Getting a watered-down OG at this point wouldn’t be a bad use of a newly-acquired second-rounder.