The Toronto Raptors recieved the 46th pick in this draft after completing a draft-day trade to send Greivis Vasquez to the Milwaukee Bucks. With that 46th pick the Bucks selected guard Norman Powell out of UCLA for the Raptors.
The Raptors took point guard Delon Wright with the 20th pick in the first round.
Raptors Cage player comparison: Shannon Brown
Norman Powell Averages: 16.4 ppg 4.7 reb 2.0 ast 1.8 stl
Strengths: Defence, Explosiveness, Motor, Leadership
Powell has the ability to come in and make an impact right away with the Raptors on the defensive end of the court boasting a 6’11 wingspan standing only 6’4. Powell is another senior who has proved his leadership and ability to impact the game by locking in on his opponent. Powell is an explosive athlete which compliments his slashing game. In comparison to Delon Wright, Norman Powell is more offensive minded in terms of being able to get his own offence. Powell will bring grit to the backcourt and workhorse like attitude, as he never missed a game in his 4-year collegiate career.
Weaknesses: Ball-handling, Decision-making, Streaky shooter
Powell is slightly undersized for his position standing at 6’4 for a combo-guard. His lack of size hinder his court vision and his lateral foot speed on the perimeter is questionable. However where he lacks in physical attributes he makes up for in complete effort. Howell is a 2-guard with the ability to play the point sparingly but will see most of his time at the 2-guard slot. Howell will also have difficulty adjusting his shot to the NBA range on a consistent level.
