I’m sure I’m going to get downvoted to oblivion for this but I will die on this hill.
In this draft the Raptors trade down from #31 with the Kings to get #45 and #48. The main thing is we need to get a second pick in the second round to draft Isaiah Crawford who is my guy in this draft. He is hands down the most underrated player and his combination of offensive skills and defense is perfect for what the Raptors are trying to build.
In the first round we grab Edey. Bring the kid home. I am higher on him than most people. There probably isn’t a more divisive player in NBA draft history tbh and I think it’s just people overthinking things. I think his supposed lack of athleticism and coordination is greatly over-exaggerated. Kid is a baller. He has generational size and would instantly be a problem in the post for teams to try and defend. I think pairing him with Scottie and other lengthy defenders will help him greatly and allow him to only play the drop coverage. I don’t expect him to be a good defender but if he can be an average defender and produce on offense like we know he’s capable of he would be a steal at #19.
And then let’s not forget KJ. The kid can score. He showed it during the season, and he showed it at the NBA combine. He knows how to put the ball in the bucket, but not only that, he also plays winning basketball. KJs advanced stats during the season were bonkers with a 24.8 PER, 60.6% TS, 7.2 WS and 10.1 BPM. He’s a talented, smart, scrappy, NBA ready point guard that will score some and defend. He is exactly what the Raptors need off the bench.
To conclude, don’t overthink Edey. If he falls to #19, you take him. This draft is a crapshoot anyways. Somehow acquire a second pick in the second round. Draft a backup point guard like KJ with the first pick and then grab Isaiah Crawford with the second pick.
Side note: If we can just buy a second pick or trade another asset, I would also not be opposed to drafting Bub Carrington if he falls to #31.
by unclekarl_
