Raptors’ Rookies Shine Amidst Challenging Season

TORONTO, Canada — The Toronto Raptors are experiencing a challenging 2024-25 season but are witnessing promising development from their rookie class. In a recent game against the Brooklyn Nets, rookies Ja’Kobe Walter, Jonathan Mogbo, Jamal Shead, and Jamison Battle significantly contributed in a 120-109 victory after a three-game losing streak.

Mogbo led the way with a game-high 17 points, marking his first NBA double-double with 11 rebounds and seven assists. The 23-year-old has been impressive since returning from injury, shooting 89 percent from the field during the game.

“It feels great to finally find my rhythm,” said Mogbo. “I just focused on playing my game and making the right decisions.” His performance highlighted his improvement as he has averaged 9.2 points per game in 10 appearances since returning.

Shead also had a standout performance, achieving a career-high 12 assists and showcasing his skills as a lead guard. The Houston Cougars alumnus has now recorded over 300 assists this season, the second-most by any Raptors rookie.

Battle made his mark early, scoring 12 points in the first half, while Walter rounded out the rookie contributions with eight points, five rebounds, two steals, and a block in 18 minutes of play.

The Raptors maintained a commanding lead throughout the game, at times ahead by as many as 23 points. Even when Brooklyn cut the deficit to single digits in the fourth quarter, Toronto quickly responded with a 9-0 run, securing their victory and clinching a 3-1 season series advantage against the Nets.

This win comes in a season where the Raptors, founded on player development and scouting, have struggled to replicate their past success. The last significant additions to the roster via the draft occurred in 2021 with Scottie Barnes, selected fourth overall, and Gradey Dick, taken 13th overall in 2023.

Despite challenges, the emergence of this rookie class signals a positive direction. Currently, their rookies are leading the league in rookie minutes and scoring. Walter, for instance, ranks 15th among rookies with an average of 8.6 points per game.

“It’s vital for us to see these young players develop,” Raptors head coach said. “We’ve trusted them to step up, and they’ve delivered. That’s a good sign for our franchise’s future.”

The Raptors are now 29-50 for the season, remaining in contention for the draft lottery with a magic number of one. A win in the final games could solidify their standing for a better draft position.

With the seventh-best odds, Toronto’s chances of landing a top-four pick would rise to 32 percent, offering a glimmer of hope for a brighter future. In the meantime, the team will continue to focus on developing its young talent.

Sunday’s game against the Nets marks a potential turning point for the Raptors, showcasing their strong foundation of talent scouting and development. Should these rookies continue to rise, they may well be the building blocks needed for a resurgence.