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NBA Team Needs 2011 – Toronto Raptors

By Ed Isaacson

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The NBA Draft Blog Team Needs series continues to take a look at each teams various draft scenarios.  The Toronto Raptors are a team which definitely has some quality pieces.  Andrea Bargnani, a former #1 overall pick, and DeMar DeRozan have both had their breakout moments, and Ed Davis is waiting for his chance to make a mark on the team.  However, the team lacks not only an identity, which may be resolved based on the next coaching hire, and still lacks a full complement of quality parts.  Having a true point guard who controls the team could help that situation a lot, and they may be in luck this year.  Let’s take a look at the Raptors’ needs:

Brandon Knight Brandon Knight #12 of the Kentucky Wildcats celebrates during the game against the Penn Quakers at Rupp Arena on January 3, 2011 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 86-62.
Brandon Knight Brandon Knight #12 of the Kentucky Wildcats celebrates during the game against the Penn Quakers at Rupp Arena on January 3, 2011 in Lexington, Kentucky. Kentucky won 86-62. /

Returning Players–  Jose Calderon (G), Andrea Bargnani (C), Leandrinho Barbosa (G – Player Option), Amir Johnson (F), Linas Kleiza (F), Julian Wright (F – Qualifying Offer), Demar DeRozan (G), Jerryd Bayless (G), Ed Davis (F), James Johnson (F), Joey Dorsey (F – Qualifying Offer), Solomon Alabi (C)

Team Needs– Perimeter Scoring, Top-Quality Point Guard

Position Needs – PG, SG, SF

Picks –  Round 1, Pick 5 (#5)

Analysis– 1 pick in this draft for the Raptors, but they may be in luck and be able to fill a real need – a legitimate point guard prospect – with it.  I discussed yesterday that there is a good chance that Utah may look to Kemba Walker or Brandon Knight to shore up their point position at #3.  I would be surprised if Toronto didn’t jump at whichever one of those two the Jazz pass on.

Alternatively, though not as likely right now, the Raptors could look to add a big man such as Enes Kanter or Jonas Valanciunas to add a more legitimate low-post threat and let Bargnani operate outside the lane.  If they do that, I wouldn’t be surprised if they look to add a 2nd round pick and target another quality point with scoring ability, such as Isaiah Thomas, who on a personal note would be a huge hit in Canada, Malcolm Lee, or Diante Garrett.

Make sure to check back tomorrow for a look at last year’s lottery winner – the Washington Wizards.  Leave your comments, email me at ed@nbadraftblog.com, and follow me on Twitter – @NBADraftBlog