The 2024 NBA Draft is set for June 26 and 27.
The Toronto Raptors will have two picks. No. 19 via the Indiana Pacers and No. 31 via the Detroit Pistons.
Several prospects have been linked to Toronto at No. 19 as the team continues to do their due diligence, hosting workouts leading into the draft.
Colin Ward-Henninger of CBS Sports released his latest mock draft and he has the Raptors taking big man Kel’el Ware out of Indiana with their first-round pick:
“Ware’s NBA fit jumps off the page (almost literally) when you watch his film. Lob threats/rim protectors like Dereck Lively II and Daniel Gafford have shown that players with Ware’s profile (and 7-foot-5 wingspan) can immediately contribute to winning. That’s his floor, but then you add in the fact that Ware shot 43% from 3-point range last season? This young man could be the steal of the draft, and he’ll pair nicely with Toronto’s young core of Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.”
During his 2023-24 season with Indiana, Ware averaged 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.9 blocks and 1.5 assists on 60.9 percent shooting from the field and 42.5 percent shooting from three. He more than doubled his averages from his freshman year at Oregon.
Ware is an enticing big man prospect. He appears to be one of the most athletic bigs in this draft.
He routinely finishes lobs and blocks shots. Ware also has nice touch around the rim and even has the ability to face up and hit midrange jumpers. He expanded his range last season, hitting over 40 percent of his three on low volume. Ware adding more strength will be important as he grows into his frame.
Overall, he would be an exciting young talent to add to the Raptors core.
Raptors take Johnny Furphy in CBS Sports’ other mock draft
David Cobb of CBS Sports released his mock draft and he has the Raptors taking someone else.
He projects Johnny Furphy out of Kansas going to Toronto at No. 19.
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