BREAKING: Raptors Take No. 1 Prospect in Latest NBA Mock Draft
The latest NBA Mock Draft from CBS suggests that the Toronto Raptors are eyeing Ron Holland and Tyler Kolek as potential picks. This could signal a shift towards a more daring approach for the team.
Currently, Toronto boasts a promising young core consisting of Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, and Gradey Dick, marking the dawn of a new era for the organization. However, to elevate to true championship contention, they likely need another player of All-Star caliber.
So, how might they acquire such a talent? One bold move could be selecting Ron Holland. The former top high school prospect, who recently played for the G League Ignite and is still only 18, could be a gamble worth taking.
In CBS’s projection, Toronto might snag the 6-foot-8 wing with the sixth overall pick in the upcoming draft. Holland exhibited considerable growth and consistency during his time with the Ignite, showcasing his playmaking abilities and athleticism, traits that could make him a standout if he fulfills his potential.
Holland’s strengths lie in his athleticism and attacking prowess, particularly in transition, where he averaged 19.5 points per game. However, his three-point shooting and turnover numbers leave room for improvement.
Defensively, Holland shows promise with his size and versatility, contributing nearly a block and 2.4 steals per game while demonstrating aptitude for switching across positions.
While there’s a risk that Holland may not fully realize his high school promise, his youth and physical attributes make him an enticing prospect. Toronto may view the gamble as a calculated risk worth taking to bolster their roster’s potential.
No. 19: Tyler Kolek (Marquette)
If Toronto is willing to take a gamble on Holland early in the draft, opting for a safer choice like Tyler Kolek a bit later would be a wise move. Standing at 6-foot-3, Marquette’s point guard may not astound scouts with exceptional athleticism or physical attributes, but his collegiate track record speaks volumes.
With an average of 15.3 points and 7.7 assists per game in his senior year, along with maintaining a 39.3% three-point shooting accuracy over two seasons, his on-court performance is commendable. Boone praises Kolek for his competitive spirit, confidence, and notable improvements in shooting and passing skills during his time at Marquette.
Although Kolek demonstrated adequate defensive skills in college, his lack of stature may leave him vulnerable to opposing offenses at the professional level.
Given Toronto’s requirement for a backup point guard, selecting a player like Kolek, who offers a solid foundation, is a sensible choice. While he may not generate the same level of excitement as other prospects, the Raptors have previously thrived with players of Kolek’s caliber, making him a dependable option, especially later in the first round.