The Toronto Raptors are embracing the tank as they look to secure a top lottery pick for the 2025 NBA Draft.
Currently sitting with the second worst record in the league, Toronto’s draft lottery odds look to be trending in the right direction.
This is the team’s first full season in their rebuild so winning is not at the forefront, but the development of this core is what matters.
In USA Today Sports’ latest mock draft, Bryan Kalbrosky has the Raptors taking Rutgers’ Ace Bailey at No. 5.
This draft class is highlighted by the highly talented projected No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg of Duke. However, Bailey is another name that is brought up in talks as a franchise-altering prospect.
The 18-year-old is averaging 19.3 points and 7.9 rebounds on 46.2 percent shooting from the field and 36.7 percent shooting from deep. As a 6’10” forward, Bailey’s skillset is simply too good to pass up on.
With Toronto’s offensive production lacking, Bailey could be an explosive option. He would fit nicely alongside Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.
The Athletic projects Raptors selecting Rutgers’ Ace Bailey in latest mock draft
This is not the first time that the Raptors have been linked to Ace Bailey. With momentum trending towards the Raptors selecting in the top-5, Bailey would be an ideal fit in Toronto.
The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie projected the Raptors taking Bailey at no. 3 as well.
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