This second-year Raptors player is eclipsing Victor Wembanyama

In a surprising twist to the 2024-25 NBA season, Toronto Raptors fans are witnessing the meteoric rise of Gradey Dick, a second-year player who is leaving a significant mark on the league. Drafted 13th overall in 2023, the sharpshooting guard from Kansas is not only meeting expectations but exceeding them in remarkable fashion. As of now, Dick leads his draft class in points per game, even surpassing the highly touted Victor Wembanyama, the first overall pick and often described as a "generational prospect".

Gradey Dick is shining brighter than his peers in the 2023 class

Gradey Dick is experiencing an impressive sophomore leap that could soon propel him into NBA stardom. His performance has been nothing short of historic; he is the first Raptors player aged 20 or younger since Tracy McGrady during the 1999-2000 season to record multiple consecutive games scoring 20 or more points. This achievement not only highlights his scoring prowess but also showcases his potential to become one of the league's standout players.

Demonstrating a versatility that few his age possess, Dick has emerged as a formidable three-level scorer. His impressive mid-range game has made headlines, placing him among the top two in the NBA—just behind Jalen Williams—with a remarkable 57.7% shooting percentage among players who have attempted at least 25 mid-range shots. This proficiency has provided the Raptors with a much-needed offensive weapon, capable of creating his own shot or capitalizing on opportunities generated by his teammates.

Similarly, Gradey Dick is demonstrating exceptional free throw shooting, averaging 92.3% at the charity stripe. This impressive performance places him among the top five players in the league, narrowly edging out none other than Victor Wembanyama.

Beyond his scoring, Dick's movement off the ball has earned him a reputation as an elite playmaker. His ability to find space and make himself available for quick shots has become a staple of the Raptors' offensive strategy. While he continues to develop his ball-handling skills, it's clear that his off-ball prowess makes him a constant threat on the court.

It is important to clarify that while Gradey Dick has made a remarkable impact this season, the comparison to Victor Wembanyama shouldn't diminish the extraordinary talent of either player. Wembanyama remains a phenomenon in his own right, but Dick's rapid development has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike. This only emphasizes how Dick is performing like a top-tier draft prospect, despite sliding toward the end of the lottery.

With his determination, work ethic, and unique skill set, Dick stands on the precipice of becoming one of the NBA's next big stars, solidifying his place among the league's elite. For Raptors fans, this emerging talent offers hope for an exciting future in Toronto, as the team looks to build on his impressive contributions. The narrative surrounding Gradey Dick is still unfolding, but with each game, he continues to prove that he is not just a player to watch—he's a player to remember.