Raptors Focus on Youth and Size Ahead of 2026 NBA Draft
As the Toronto Raptors continue their rebuild following a hard-fought seven-game series against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the playoffs, the front office is turning its attention to the upcoming NBA draft. With picks at No. 19 and No. 50, general manager Bobby Webster and head coach Darko Rajakovic are prioritizing long-term development while addressing key roster needs.
Addressing the Need for a True Center
Toronto’s lack of size was exposed during the postseason, particularly against Cleveland’s dominant frontcourt duo of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Jakob Poeltl, the team’s only player over 6’7″ last season, missed 36 games due to injury and saw his minutes limited in the playoffs. At 31, he remains the second-oldest player on the roster behind veteran Garrett Temple, who played a minimal role off the bench.
If backup center Sandro Mamukelashvili opts out of his $2.8 million player option this summer, the Raptors could face even greater depth issues in the paint. To counter this, Toronto is reportedly targeting big men in the draft. Potential first-round options include 6’11” forward Allen Graves (Santa Clara), 6’11” forward/center Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston), and 6’10” center Henri Veesaar (North Carolina). In the second round, names like 6’10” center Ugonna Onyenso (Virginia), forward Tobe Awaka (Arizona), and Tobi Lawal (Virginia) could be available.
Seeking Backcourt Depth Behind Immanuel Quickley
While Immanuel Quickley is expected to return as the starting point guard, his absence for most of the playoffs forced All-Star Scottie Barnes into a primary playmaking role. Sophomore guards Ja’Kobe Walter and Jamal Shead filled in with mixed results, highlighting the need for reliable backcourt depth.
At No. 19, the Raptors may target guards such as Christian Anderson (Texas Tech), Bennett Stirtz (Iowa), or Labaron Philon Jr. (Alabama). Around pick No. 50, prospects like Tre Donaldson (PG), Milos Uzan (Houston), and Noam Yaacov (Oostende, Denmark) could provide additional options to bolster the guard rotation.
Draft Strategy: Best Player Available with an Eye on Fit
Assistant general manager Dan Tolzman emphasized that Toronto intends to select the best player available at both picks, but acknowledged the team’s specific needs at center and point guard. The Raptors’ youth movement—already evident in their playoff run—will likely continue as they aim to build a competitive core for the future.
The 2026 NBA Draft takes place Tuesday and Wednesday, with Toronto poised to add young talent that aligns with their rebuilding timeline and positional requirements.
