The Toronto Raptors are looking to make this rebuild as short as possible.
For a team that is committed to being a competitive one in the Eastern Conference, Toronto hopes losing is not on the agenda for that much longer.
Currently situated with picks No. 19 and 31, there are plenty of intriguing options for Toronto.
Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer put out his recent mock draft and he has the Raptors taking Ja’Kobe Walter out of Baylor at No. 19.
“Walter is a 6’5″ shooting guard capable of making shots while possessing physical tools to finish around the rim.
The 19-year-old averaged 14.7 points, 4.5 rebounds and 1.5 assists on 38.2 percent shooting from the field and 33.9 percent shooting from three-point range.
It certainly is an intriguing fit alongside Barnes, as the guard room needs more depth. With Immanuel Quickley leading the charge as a starter, having a guy like Walter behind him is not a bad idea.”
Then O’Connor continues with pick No. 31. He has Toronto selecting Kyle Filipowski, a center from Duke.
“In his sophomore season with the Blue Devils, the 7’0″ averaged 16.4 points, 8.3 rebounds and 1.5 blocks in 30.4 minutes. In contrast to Poeltl, Filipowski can space the floor as he shot 34.8 percent from three-point range.
It became apparent that when Poeltl missed time, the Raptors struggled with rim deterrence. Filipowski can provide some level of rim protection, better than Kelly Olynyk.”
There are two players who could certainly fit around Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett. There is no shortage of options of who to pick, but a guard and center should be at the forefront for the Raptors.
Ja’Kobe Walter projected at No. 19 in previous O’Connor mock draft
This is not the first time O’Connor had both Walter and Filipowski going to the Raptors.
In a previous mock draft, he had them going to Toronto, which could become a reality.
Have you subscribed to the Raptors Nation YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in live shows, and more!
