With the NBA draft just around the corner, teams are meticulously finalizing their lists of prospects and holding their last workouts. The Toronto Raptors are in a promising position, holding the 19th and 31st picks in the draft, set to kick off Day 2 on June 27. This year marks the first time the NBA has extended the draft to a multi-day event, adding an extra layer of excitement and strategy.
Dan Tolzman, Raptors assistant general manager and vice president of player personnel, expressed optimism about their draft position. Despite rumors that teams are interested in trading for the 31st pick, Tolzman remains focused on the possibilities that controlling Day 2 offers. He anticipates the unpredictability of the first round, suggesting that some players might unexpectedly fall into the second round, offering Toronto the chance to pick up a highly coveted player.
There is also speculation about the Raptors’ front office considering a move to trade up in the draft. Although they missed out on a top-six pick, which went to San Antonio, their extensive scouting of top prospects could still pay off. One intriguing prospect is Serbian guard Nikola Topic, who recently suffered a partial ACL tear. This injury could cause him to drop in the draft, potentially allowing Toronto to trade up and secure a talent that aligns with their long-term plans, much like they did with OG Anunoby despite his previous knee injury.
Throughout the pre-draft process, Toronto has evaluated numerous players up close. Tolzman mentioned the diverse blend of talents they’ve seen, noting that many players are trying to prove they deserve a spot in the top 20, while others are vying for consideration at No. 31. This year, however, there hasn’t been as much clear separation between tiers of players, making the draft even more unpredictable.
In particular, Purdue’s Zach Edey and Indiana’s Kel’el Ware are among the players who have worked out for the Raptors. Tolzman admitted that arranging workouts has been challenging, but it has provided valuable insights into potential picks. The lack of clear tiers among prospects means the Raptors need to be prepared for various scenarios, staying flexible to capitalize on whichever talented players remain available when it’s their turn to pick.
Overall, the Toronto Raptors are gearing up for a draft that promises to be full of surprises and opportunities. Their strategic position, combined with thorough scouting and a readiness to adapt, sets the stage for potentially impactful selections that could shape the team’s future success.
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