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Redrafting the 2016 NBA Draft class

By Simon Shortt

Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver poses for a group photo on stage with draft prospects before the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 23, 2016; New York, NY, USA; NBA commissioner Adam Silver poses for a group photo on stage with draft prospects before the 2016 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 28, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Marquese Chriss (0) looks to pass the ball as Atlanta Hawks forward Taurean Prince (12) defends in the first quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2017; Atlanta, GA, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Marquese Chriss (0) looks to pass the ball as Atlanta Hawks forward Taurean Prince (12) defends in the first quarter at Philips Arena. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /

9. Toronto Rapters

Original Pick: Jakob Poeltl
New Pick: Marquese Chriss

Jakob Poeltl could still be an interesting pick for the Toronto Raptors, who may be undergoing some changes this offseason. But considering the Serge Ibaka experiment didn’t go as planned, and that he and Patrick Patterson are free agents this summer, a younger more athletic option at the 4 may be a wiser pick than another seven-foot center.

Chriss had a good year statistically, averaging 9.4 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. He showed a decent stroke from deep despite the 32 percent success rate. Although he had some defensive lapses as a rookie, he showed defensive potential with 1.4 blocks and 1.4 steals per 36 minutes. With his size (6’10”, 7’0″ wingspan) and athleticism, he is the prototypical wing/forward for today’s game.

After going the win-now route this season, and it not quite panning out, it may be time for the Raptors to look ahead. Chriss is the type of player the league is trending toward.