The Toronto Raptors are looking towards the future with their new crop of rookies, all of whom have shown potential during the Las Vegas Summer League. Each player brings something different to the table, but they also have questions that need to be addressed as they head into their first NBA season.
Ja’Kobe Walter, a standout sharpshooter from Baylor University, was the Raptors’ top pick in the draft. Standing at 6-foot-4 with a 6-foot-10 wingspan, Walter has the physical tools to succeed in the league. However, his performance in Vegas was less than stellar, shooting just 35% from the field and 21% from three-point range. The biggest question surrounding Walter is how he will impact the game offensively when his outside shot isn’t falling.
Jonathan Mogbo, on the other hand, is a versatile player from the University of San Francisco. Despite being undersized at 6-foot-6, Mogbo has shown the ability to handle the ball, playmake, and create his own shot. However, his lack of outside shooting is a concern, as he only attempted 40 threes in college. Can Mogbo develop a reliable outside shot and find his place in the NBA as a non-shooting big man?
Jamal Shead, a defensive specialist from the University of Houston, was acquired by the Raptors in a trade with the Kings. Known for his tough defense and playmaking abilities, Shead will need to improve his scoring to be effective in the NBA. With a history of average scoring numbers and mediocre outside shooting, Shead must find ways to contribute on the offensive end despite his lack of size at six feet tall.
As these rookies prepare for their first NBA season, they will have to answer the biggest questions about their games in order to make an impact on the Raptors’ rebuilding roster. With hard work and determination, these young players have the potential to carve out a place for themselves in the league and help shape the future of the Toronto Raptors.
