2024 NBA Mock Draft: Raptors win the Lottery, Kentucky guards plummet
18. Orlando Magic select Isaiah Collier
The Orlando Magic's defense was ready for primetime in the NBA playoffs this year, but on offense Paolo Banchero didn't have enough help. Jalen Suggs' shot was inconsistent, Franz Wagner was consistently bad, and the Magic's lack of a second shot creator was exposed.
Isaiah Collier is not a particularly good swing at finding such a player, but they won't find the answer just with the 18th pick, especially not in this draft. As they use cap space or trade assets to add such a player, they could take another swing at it by drafting Collier.
One of the top prospects in his high school class, Collier was wildly inconsistent at USC. At times he dominated, scoring from anywhere he wanted and even turning in defensive highlight plays. Yet at other times, Collier gambled and lost going for steals, has a shot that looks somewhat broken, and racked up turnovers like he was collecting them. Deciding whether or not to draft Collier is a difficult task for the Magic or any other team.
19. Toronto Raptors select Tristan Da Silva
The Toronto Raptors have historically loaded up on long, athletic forwards who have a high skill level but are questionable shooters. Tristan Da Silva would represent a significant sea change, but one that may be a welcome fit on the current roster.
Tristan Da Silva is not an elite athlete, but he is an exceptionally smooth shooter and skilled passer who would bring a different aspect to the Raptors' offense, especially when Scottie Barnes is off the court. He even has a strong post game to break out against a switch, and in this scenario could be the perfect complement to Alex Sarr.
On defense Da Silva is not breaking any rim protection records, but he is large and quick enough to be a capable weakside rim protector and can survive on the perimeter. Against other power forwards he should be able to stand up well. While adding another wing would be helpful, at this point in the draft their best option may be adding shooting at the forward position instead.