The Best Defender in the NCAA Is a Prospect the Raptors Should Watch
Right now, March Madness scouting might be the most enjoyable activity for Toronto Raptors supporters for the next several weeks, and the Virginia wing is undoubtedly a player to watch.
Toronto used to have an abundance of players similar to the 6-foot-8 wing. With his long and rangy frame, he can guard several positions and his toughness has made him a potential top defender in college basketball. In addition to commanding one of the greatest defenses in the nation with 2.3 blocks per game, he is an exceptional help defender who averages 1.3 thefts per game.
The irony of Masai Ujiri’s team suddenly needing more guys who are roughly six feet eight is that the Raptors traded Pascal Siakam and OG Anunoby this season. Dunn is the best defender in college basketball, but his biggest shortcoming is unquestionably his shooting. This might be the greatest place for him to go if he improves his jump shot, as Siakam and Anunoby did in Toronto, according to Kevin O’Conner’s most recent mock draft for The Ringer.
A few years ago, Dunn would have been your average Raptors prospect. He only makes one attempt per game this season and is only hitting 20.6% from three-point range. Other than scoring close to the rim, he doesn’t provide much more to the offensive effort.
However, Toronto has taken risks on players like Dunn in the past, and given the obvious need for a wing defender, the 21-year-old sophomore would be a great addition to the Raptors if he is available at No. 17 when Indiana’s previous pick is selected.
With a chance to face Texas in the Round of 64, Dunn and the 10th-seeded Cavaliers will play Colorado State in the First Four round on Tuesday at 9:10 p.m.