Toronto Raptors Eye Rookies Ahead of NBA Draft

TORONTO, Canada — The Toronto Raptors are poised to make significant decisions as the 2025 NBA Draft approaches, set for Wednesday. Holding the ninth overall pick, the Raptors are contemplating whether to draft a promising rookie or explore trade options to bolster their roster.

Raptors assistant general manager Dan Tolzman expressed the team’s position at a news conference held Monday. “It doesn’t seem like there’s many options out there, at least to move up,” he stated. This year, the Raptors’ aim is to land a player who could make an impact next season.

With the 39th pick in the second round also on the line, Tolzman acknowledged interest from other teams in acquiring the Raptors’ ninth pick. “There’s definitely interest in people trying to get our pick,” he added, noting the potential of the top 10 players in this draft.

Two standout prospects are being closely watched by the Raptors, Khaman Maluach from Duke and Carter Bryant from Arizona. Both players are expected to contribute positively to Toronto’s future. “If the Raptors end up with either, fans should be happy,” one analyst said regarding their potential fit with the team.

Beyond the top two options, Tolzman explained that the Raptors’ preferences for players might differ from other teams, making the draft choices even more intriguing.

This year’s draft will take place over two days, with much speculation surrounding the potential selections. Being in the ninth slot presents the Raptors with a unique opportunity to secure a top talent who could align well with their strategic vision.

As the hours count down to the draft, analyst Sam Vecenie and others anticipate Maluach, a 7-foot-1 center, to be a favorable pick for Toronto if he is still available by the ninth selection.

With numerous players still in contention, the Raptors’ decision will hinge on their assessment of talent and fit within the current roster dynamic as they aim to enhance their competitiveness in the league.