As Raptors Nation is probably well aware by now, the team has a custom of awarding its best players in each game with an MVP chain, also known as the "Win the Day" chain.
In the team's most recent outing against the Brooklyn Nets on March 26, the Raptors bestowed that honor upon their rookie forward, Jonathan Mogbo, who had a tremendous game off the bench.
Raptors rookie Jonathan Mogbo shines against the Brooklyn Nets
Put it on the fridge pic.twitter.com/GHpyD8pCvi
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) March 27, 2025
Mogbo showcased his versatility and a nice touch around the basket in the Nets matchup, recording a stat line of 16 points on 50% shooting from the field, going 6-for-6 on free throws, along with seven rebounds, five assists, and two stocks (one steal, one block) in just over 23 minutes of playing time.
He would even finish this game as the Raptors' best player in terms of plus/minus, achieving a team-high of +25.
In a sense, Mogbo kind of looked like his childhood buddy Scottie Barnes out there with his shots and the balanced statistics he would notch across the board. Mogbo would bully his way down low, matching body-for-body with Nets' interior players Nic Claxton and Trendon Watford; where he'd make a turnaround hook shot and turnaround jump shot, respectively.
In fact, it's the style of play I just called for Scottie Barnes to rediscover—one that was a significant strength for him during his rookie season.
We know that Mogbo's signature strength lies in his ability to finish at the rim and play near the basket. However, this season, the Raptors have been experimenting with his role, alternating between a small-ball five archetype and his natural forward position in various games.
Because of this, I pointed out in a previous article that Mogbo's long-term role on the Raptors could be in jeopardy if they couldn't quite settle on what works best for him—especially with the team setting its sights on a change of direction soon.
I believe some of the criticism toward Mogbo lately stems from the fact that he's an older prospect, which created higher expectations for him to be a more polished, NBA-ready talent. That’s exactly why I questioned whether the Raptors' decision to pass on sharpshooting big Kyle Filipowski was a misstep. However, it's important to remember that he still has room for growth and potential.
Take his three-point shot, for example; it's far from perfect, but Mogbo is putting in the effort to improve this aspect of his game, especially considering it was virtually non-existent during his collegiate career.
Like I said before, there is still a ton of value in Mogbo stock, so let's just hope he can continue to show this version of himself on a more consistent basis.