NBA Draft 2013: Toronto Raptors Draft Preview
By Josh Sanchez
This post was contributed to FanSided.com by FanSided’s very own Toronto Raptors blog, Raptors Rapture. For more Raptors news and rumors, be sure to check out RaptorsRapture.com.
The Toronto Raptors have no picks on June 27. Our first-rounder (and a scrub) was traded to Houston for Kyle Lowry. The Rockets flipped the pick to Oklahoma City, who will be choosing in the Raps’ #12 spot. Our second-round pick went to Memphis in the Rudy Gay acquisition.
The Raps played three rookies last season (Terrence Ross, Jonas Valanciunas, Quincy Acy), so the team doesn’t lack for young blood. If there ever was a draft class in which to not have a pick, it’s this one. New Raps’ GM Masai Ujiri is unlikely to trade into the draft, as it’s simply too late in the process.
We are excited about two Canadians projected to be selected in the lottery. Anthony Bennett (UNLV) and Kelly Olynyk (Gonzaga) will help the front courts of whichever team grabs them. Myck Kabongo (Texas) has fallen well down the table, and is projected as a late second-rounder. I hope he’s undrafted, so the Raps can sign him as a free agent.
The Raps won’t be hosting a draft-night party downtown at the Air Canada Centre, which is a shame, as it had become a summertime tradition for many of us. Good luck with your New Kids On The Block, everyone.