3 Raptors predictions that would surprise NBA casuals next season
By Mike Luciano
2. Gradey Dick makes All-Rookie First Team
The Raptors prioritized shooting in the 2023 NBA Draft when they took a consistent sniper who shot over 40% from deep in college No. 13 overall. Dick needs to pack on the pounds before he can truly become a star in this league, but he has a very enticing based to work from.
The Raptors will likely put the ball in Dick’s hands quite regularly, as he is the shooter this team was crying out for last season. However, Summer League proved that he can be more than just a stationary catch-and-shoot threat. The creation ability is there, and it should not be held back.
Gradey Dick will help the Toronto Raptors score.
While Dennis Schroder coming to town and Gary Trent Jr. returning will give the Raptors a better backcourt than they had last year, Rajakovic will likely make sure that Dick gets his shots up early and often. He is in good hands with the man who turned Desmond Bane into a max contract player.
While names like Victor Wembanyama and Scoot Henderson may have locked down spots, Dick beating out the Thompson twins, Brandon Miller, and Anthony Black for one of the backcourt spots is by no means unrealistic. If any of their teams take a step back and Dick’s Raptors start winning, such a rare accolade could be his for the taking.