No. 2: Nikola Topic, Guard, Serbia
Not to be confused with Nikola Jokic or Nikola Jovic, Topic is something of a throwback to the classic European guard, a player whose skill has been developed through years in a professional ecosystem.
At 6'6" Topic has plenty of size as a guard and is big enough to pair with Immanuel Quickley in the backcourt. He is one of the best offensive prospects in the draft, a crafty finisher and smooth passer who always seems to press the right button based on what the defense is showing him.
The swing skill with most players is shooting, and Topic has work to do to improve his jumpshot, but his free-throw percentage is elite and suggests that growth is in his future. The development of his shooting will allow him to thrive alongside Quickley and Scottie Barnes, but eventually he could end up as the best ball-handler and playmaker of the group.
The defensive end of the court is a real question mark for Topic, and if the Raptors were only interested in the best fit right now they would likely go for more of an off-ball wing. The upside on Topic is significant, however, and Toronto would be smart to hit for the fences while also taking a player who can survive or even thrive with the stars they have in place.