Assuming the Toronto Raptors keep their #9 pick in the June 23 NBA draft, they should be able to grab a serious talent. I say “should” because nothing is guaranteed in the draft. Who was the first overall selection in 2013? Anthony Bennett. 2007? Greg Oden.
That splash of cold water aside, let’s take a look at some of the best of those selected with the #9 pick.
The Raptors have had this pick twice in their history, and the results are most encouraging. In 2009, Bryan Colangelo chose DeMar DeRozan, and in 1997, Isiah Thomas tapped Tracy McGrady.