In a significant blow to the Toronto Raptors’ draft plans, Head Coach Darko Rajaković confirmed that the team will be unable to utilize their No. 8 pick in the upcoming 2024 NBA Draft. The unexpected setback has rattled the Raptors’ preparations for the draft, altering their strategy significantly.
The Raptors’ trajectory towards a rebuild became evident with the trades of OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam during the past season. Ending the 2023-24 campaign with a disappointing 25-57 record, placing them 12th in the Eastern Conference, Toronto anticipated securing a high lottery pick for the upcoming draft.
Despite holding a promising 46 percent chance of securing a top-six selection, the Raptors were dealt a cruel hand as they plummeted to the No. 8 spot during the draft lottery. Consequently, they are obligated to convey the pick to the San Antonio Spurs, granting the Spurs two draft selections within the Top 10 of this year’s draft class.
The Raptors’ relinquishment of their No. 8 pick stems from a trade agreement made in 2023, involving Khem Birch, two second-round picks, and their 2024 first-round pick, which was top-six protected. As the pick failed to land within the top six, San Antonio now has the opportunity to utilize it.
Looking ahead, the earliest selection the Raptors can make in the draft is from the No. 19 overall pick, acquired from the Pascal Siakam trade with the Indiana Pacers. In light of this, the latest ESPN Mock Draft suggests the Raptors may target Kyle Filipowski from Duke with this pick.
Beyond draft considerations, the Raptors face crucial decisions regarding their key players, including impending free agents Immanuel Quickley, Bruce Brown, Gary Trent Jr., and Jordan Nwora. Of particular importance is securing Quickley’s services, given his stellar performance, averaging career-highs of 6.8 assists and 18.6 points per game.
Additionally, franchise cornerstone Scottie Barnes is eligible for a significant contract extension, potentially making him the fourth player in Raptors history to receive a rookie max extension, following in the footsteps of Pascal Siakam, Chris Bosh, and Vince Carter. The Raptors’ front office faces a challenging offseason as they navigate these pivotal decisions amidst the setback of losing their No. 8 draft pick.
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