The 2024 NBA Draft is just three weeks away.
The Toronto Raptors will have pick No. 19 via the Indiana Pacers and No. 31 via the Detroit Pistons.
The Raptors recently worked out Purdue big man Zach Edey and a lot of buzz has been made about if Toronto will draft the Canadian.
However, Sam Vecenie doesn’t think so. He released his latest mock draft for The Athletic and he has the Raptors drafting Yves Missi out of Baylor:
“Missi is a project, but with elite tools that project to a clear NBA role. As a 7-footer with a 7-5 wingspan, Missi might have the best frame of any low-usage center prospect in the class. He’s a terrific athlete who moves his feet fluidly in space, given his size, and can sky for impressive lob finishes in transition and from the dunker spot. He blocks shots well and has potential to stick with guards for multiple slides on defense. He made the Big 12 All-Defense team as a freshman while averaging 10.7 points per game on 61 percent from the field.
He profiles as a Clint Capela-style big man who can guard a bit in space once he picks up the nuances of ball-screen coverage and protect the rim with his physical frame. He needs to put on some weight and get stronger through his base, as he too often gets moved on the block and can struggle on the defensive glass. But he has the look of a competent defensive starting center if he can reach his ceiling.”
Missi started in 32 games and averaged 10.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 23 minutes of action per night.
The 20-year-old has the tools that can make him an elite shot blocker and rim runner in the NBA. However, his lack of shooting from the outside could hurt him. Overall he’s a high-upside prospect who could end up being a huge get for a Raptors team that needs frontcourt depth.
Despite being relatively inexperienced, Missi is a former five-star recruit and his rapid development at Baylor presents an opportunity for significant growth with the Raptors franchise.
Dan Tolzman talks about new two-night NBA Draft
For the first time ever the NBA Draft will be a two-night event. The first round of the draft is set for June 26 at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN. The second round of the draft will take place on June 27 starting at 4 p.m. ET.
Raptors Assistant General Manager Dan Tolzman recently talked about the two-night draft.
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