It was seen by many as a surprise when the Toronto Raptors took Collin Murray-Boyles with the No. 9 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Duke center Khaman Maluach was still on the board and many thought that he was going to be the Raptors’ selection. The Raptors needed a backup center behind Jakob Poeltl and he would have been the perfect pick based on need. However, the Raptors went with another forward in Murray-Boyles who comes into the NBA without a jump shot, but prioritizes strong defensive play.
While the pick might seem risky, one NBA executive thinks the Raptors are going to end up with the steal of the draft.
ESPN dropped their annual post-Summer League poll of 20 anonymous executives and scouts and Murray-Boyles received one vote for the biggest steal of the draft. San Antonio Spurs’ Carter Bryant received the most votes with five.
Murray-Boyles was impressive in Summer League, averaging 10.5 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1 block in 4 games. He defended multiple positions and brought tremendous energy and effort. His defensive skills and physicality stood out the most.
Offensively is where Murray-Boyles will have his work cut out for him. He didn’t shoot the ball well from three and did most of his damage inside. Cutting to the basket, putbacks and finishing around the rim was where his offense came from. The hope is that Murray-Boyles can develop a consistent jump shot so he can provide spacing in the Raptors’ offense.
The Raptors are betting on Murray-Boyles becoming an elite defensive player and finisher at the rim. That’s what’s going to make him a solid role player for the team. And if his offense comes along, then he will be a high-level player for years to come.
Raptors players miss out on Summer League awards
The Toronto Raptors missed out on the All-Summer League honors, despite reaching the semifinals.
The NBA announced its First and Second Team selections on Tuesday. The First Team included Nique Clifford, Kyle Filipowski, David Jones-Garcia, Jordan Miller and Terrence Shannon Jr. Meanwhile, the Second Team featured Ron Holland II, Isaac Jones, Kon Knueppel, Ajay Mitchell and KJ Simpson.
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!
