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2016 NBA Mock Draft: Every Team’s Ideal Fit

By Maxwell Ogden

Mar 17, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (3) celebrates with Providence Friars forward Ben Bentil (0) after a play against the USC Trojans during the second half at PNC Arena. The Friars wins 70-69. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 17, 2016; Raleigh, NC, USA; Providence Friars guard Kris Dunn (3) celebrates with Providence Friars forward Ben Bentil (0) after a play against the USC Trojans during the second half at PNC Arena. The Friars wins 70-69. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles forward Henry Ellenson (13) dribbles around St. John's Red Storm forward Kassoum Yakwe (14) in the second half during the Big East conference tournament at Madison Square Garden. Marquette defeated St. John's 101-93. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 9, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Marquette Golden Eagles forward Henry Ellenson (13) dribbles around St. John’s Red Storm forward Kassoum Yakwe (14) in the second half during the Big East conference tournament at Madison Square Garden. Marquette defeated St. John’s 101-93. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports /

8. Toronto Raptors (via Nuggets): Henry Ellenson, Marquette Golden Eagles

Position: Power Forward

Age: 19 (1/13/1997)

Height, Weight, Wingspan: 6’10.5″, 231 pounds, 7’2″

Slash Line: .

Season Averages: 33.5 MPG, 17.0 PPG, 9.7 RPG, 2.2 ORPG, 1.8 APG, 1.5 BPG, 0.8 SPG, 0.9 3PM

Assuming the Toronto Raptors remain where they are in the 2016 NBA Draft, there are few better outcomes than this. Toronto needs a big man who can space the floor and consistently play from the post, which is much harder to find than it seems.

Marquette Golden Eagles star Henry Ellenson has the potential to be that player.

Ellenson is one of the best defensive rebounders in this draft class, which is a strength that fits Dwane Casey’s system. He’ll pull down boards, make accurate outlet passes, and help facilitate the Raptors’ transition attack with the likes of DeMarre Carroll, DeMar DeRozan, Kyle Lowry, and Terrence Ross.

More importantly, Ellenson is one of the most offensively versatile players available.

Ellenson, a powerful 6’10” and 231 pounds, has the bruising body and touch around the basket to be a reliable low-post scoring presence. He also has an intriguing jump shot that includes his improving 3-point range—a strength that isn’t yet polished, but in existence.

Jonas Valanciunas is progressing well as a rebounder and defensive asset, but Toronto needs an offensive player of Ellenson’s breed.

Next: Sacramento Kings

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