2024 NBA Mock Draft: B/R has Raptors using 4 picks on high-end athletes, defenders
By Mike Luciano
No. 31 Oso Ighodaro, C, Marquette
The Jakob Poeltl injury has exposed just how barren the cupboards are in the frontcourt when it comes to rim protection. The horrible and unfortunate circumstances surrounding Christian Koloko's departure from the Raptors signify the need for another addition in the paint.
Many of the traits that helped Koloko get picked apply to Ighodaro. An experienced starter and rebounder who has gone up against quality competition, the Marquette star's best traits right now are his ability to band down low in the post, finish inside with touch, and defend the paint well at multiple spots.
Oso Ighodaro could be a quality backup for the Toronto Raptors.
Ujiri might not satisfy everyone with this pick, however. After years of trying and failing to turn Precious Achiuwa into a consistent offensive performer, would it be in Ujiri's best interest to reset the clock with another big man who has even less versatility on both ends of the floor?
If the Raptors fail to address the center spot behind Poeltl this offseason, Ighodaro might actually play a role in the rotation early on. On a team that will divide shots between Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, and Scottie Barnes, getting a garbage man who can clean up the mess on the interior will be important,
manual