The NBA draft is fast approaching and many are making Raptors Canadian related draft day forecasts. These proposals are not far-fetched as Toronto does own three picks in the upcoming draft and there are 6-8 Canadians expected to be selected. Furthermore, any Canadian player that the Raptors draft would inevitably become an instant marketing asset to be used with fans all across Canada. But is it realistic for the Raptors to draft a Canadian-born player? Absolutely, yes. Even if the Raptors decide to leave the prospect’s native land as immaterial when it comes to who they are drafting, there are several Canadian prospects who could fit very well with the Raptors organization. Ultimately, the Raptors will select a player based on the best player available at the time, but it would definitely be a bonus if that player just so happens to be Canadian. These are the Canadian-born players that the Raptors could select on June 26th.

 

Tyler Ennis

For the Raptors to be able to draft Ennis, they will need him to fall down the draft board. But if Ennis does descend from his projected position in the lottery and is still available to the Raptors at the 20th pick, they will take him. At that point there will be no doubt that he is the best prospect on the board and he also provides the Raptors with some insurance in case of a Kyle Lowry departure.

Melvin Ejim

The likelihood of the Raptors selecting Ejim is low as he is not perceived as a future starter nor impact player, and they have serviceable players at the position he would play. But since the Raptors do own the 59th pick in the draft they could possibly select him should he fall. However it is highly unlikely that Ejim falls this far as he is most likely an early second round pick. If available though, do not be surprised to see the Raptors pick him up to bolster their second team depth on the wing.

Jordan Bachynski

Bachynski is a unique draft prospect. Already 24 years old (he will be 25 by the start of training camp) he is considered a second round prospect who can contribute right away. As a big center with a strong skillset, expect the Raptors to take a strong look at Bachynski come draft night as he could fill a Raptors need at the backup center position. The Raptors could potentially select him with either of their two second round picks.

Khem Birch

If Birch is still available near the end of the draft, the Raptors will surely express their interest as Birch has the potential to be a solid NBA player. Once thought of as a future star, he was the 9th ranked High School player from his class (2011, via Rivals.com), Birch had a disappointing few years in the NCAA but he will look to capitalize on his athleticism in the NBA. The only way the Raptors will draft him is if he is still available at the 59th pick and the organisation believes in his potential as a rebounder and shot blocker.

Sim Bhullar

Sim Bhullar being drafted by the Raptors has been a rumour circulating since he decided to enter the draft. It’s another rumour that makes sense too as he is a big body (7’5”, 350lbs, via DraftExpress.com), from Toronto, and has massive potential. If he’s available at 59the Raptors should take him.

 

For the first time ever there is serious potential for a Canadian born player to be drafted by the Toronto Raptors without the reasoning being that it’s only because he’s Canadian.

Three Point Dunk