The Toronto Raptors, a basketball club from Canada, have made major draft picks that have been essential to their success. Along with influencing the Raptors' success, these choices have irrevocably changed the NBA. The Toronto Raptors are in a good position to use their No. 13 choice in the 2023 NBA Draft to choose a star player who will turn around their team's fortunes. Toronto needs ball handlers, shooters, and ideally one guy who can contribute in each of those categories. Here we take a look at the top 5 Raptors’ draft picks of all time.
Vince Carter
The 1998 NBA Draft's fifth-overall choice, Vince Carter, signaled a turning point for the Raptors organization. Carter became an overnight phenomenon thanks to his spectacular dunks, scoring prowess, and alluring playing style. He was essential to the sport's growth in Canada and helped the club have several playoff runs, including its first-ever appearance in the Eastern Conference Finals in 2001. The importance of Carter to Canadian culture and his performance on the floor have cemented Carter's status as the best draft choice in Raptors' history.
DeMar DeRozan
DeMar DeRozan's selection by the Toronto Raptors as the ninth overall choice in the 2009 NBA Draft signaled the start of an extraordinary career. DeRozan established himself as the brand's spokesperson by showcasing his offensive prowess, tenacity, and devotion to the group. He was a key contributor to the success of the Raptors, guiding them to repeated playoff trips and four All-Star selections. DeRozan is among the best draft selections in Raptors history thanks to his contributions on the court and dedication to the team.
Pascal Siakam
With the 27th overall choice in the 2016 draft, the Raptors selected Siakam. Although the lanky 6-foot-9 forward had a difficult first season, he finally rose through the ranks and is now undoubtedly one of the finest players on the team. With averages of 16.9 points and 6.9 rebounds during the 2018–19 season, Siakam made a name for himself and won the Most Improved Player title. In addition, Spicy P developed into a crucial component of the Raptors' drive to their first-ever title in 19′.
Chris Bosh
The success of the Raptors in the 2000s was made possible by the selection of Chris Bosh as the fourth overall choice in the NBA Draft in 2003. Through the course of his time with the squad, Bosh showed his adaptability, agility, and scoring power. He helped the Raptors win their first division title in 2007 and rose to the position of all-time top scorer for the team. Bosh was one of the Raptors' finest draft selections because of his contributions to the team's winning culture and on-court success.
Jonas Valančiūnas
The fifth overall choice in the 2011 NBA Draft, Jonas Valančiūnas, added a talented and commanding presence to the Raptors' frontcourt. During his time with the squad, Valančiūnas showed his scoring power, rebounding proficiency, and shot-blocking abilities. He was crucial in making the Raptors a powerhouse in the Eastern Conference by ensuring their regular participation in the playoffs. Valančiūnas is among the top draft choices in Raptors history thanks to his effect on the court and his contributions to the team's success.
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