NBA Draft: Grades for all 15 teams in the Eastern Conference

Eastern Conference NBA Draft Grades: Toronto Raptors

Picks: Christian Koloko, Center, Arizona (33)

The Toronto Raptors have a bevy of big forwards and managed to cobble together lineups with a power forward at center, but it was clear that they would target at least one true center this offseason via the draft, trade or free agency. After not having a first-round pick from the Goran Dragic / Thad Young deal last season, the Raptors’ first chance was at pick No. 33 at the top of the second.

They didn’t waste any time, taking a center in Koloko who many had ranked in their first rounds. He does all of the traditional center things well, an athletic shot-blocker who finishes well inside and walls off the rim. He is an excellent athlete, and his vertical spacing will help stretch defenses as Koloko races to the rim in the pick-and-roll.

He showed a potential jumper at the draft combine and if that becomes a weapon he will be a steal at 33. Even if he doesn’t, he can fill a role as a solid rotation player, perhaps even a starter, and was well worth the investment of an early 2nd.

Grade: B