Raptors Should Eye Cooper Flagg’s Duke Teammate If They Lose Out on Star in NBA Lottery
The Toronto Raptors are facing a pivotal moment in their rebuilding process, especially with the 2025 NBA draft looming large. As the team seeks to bolster its roster for a return to playoff contention, the Raptors’ fortunes in the lottery will be crucial. Should they miss out on the high-profile prospects like Victor Wembanyama or Scoot Henderson, one player who should remain on Toronto’s radar is a rising star from Duke University — a potential teammate of Cooper Flagg, who many expect to be a top selection in the 2025 draft.
The Raptors’ current roster, which includes key figures like Pascal Siakam, Scottie Barnes, and Fred VanVleet, is in a transitional phase. While there is talent, the team lacks the consistent star power to push them deep into the playoffs. If they are unable to land one of the coveted top prospects in the lottery, it may be wise for Toronto to look to a player who could both contribute immediately and grow into a centerpiece for the future.
This brings us to Duke’s next potential superstar, who may be flying under the radar due to the attention paid to his more high-profile teammates. While much of the buzz surrounding the Blue Devils focuses on the incoming 2025 recruit, Cooper Flagg, there is another Duke player who should not be overlooked: a talented and versatile guard/wing who has shown flashes of elite potential. This player, whose game has been evolving under Coach Jon Scheyer, could be the perfect fit for a Raptors team in need of both scoring and defensive versatility.
A closer look at this Duke guard/wing reveals a dynamic player who has a mix of size, skill, and a defensive-first mentality — qualities that the Raptors have prioritized in recent years. The player’s ability to impact both ends of the floor would provide Toronto with a much-needed influx of two-way talent. The Raptors have struggled with consistency on offense and defense, particularly in the backcourt, and this Duke prospect could provide immediate relief while also offering long-term upside.
Furthermore, what makes this player an intriguing option for the Raptors is the synergy that could develop with the team’s current core, especially with Scottie Barnes. Known for his playmaking and basketball IQ, Barnes would likely thrive alongside a player who excels in transition and has shown an ability to hit big shots under pressure. The Raptors’ emphasis on a balanced approach — blending offense with a commitment to defense — aligns with what this Duke prospect can bring to the table.
Another important factor is the Raptors’ position in the draft order. If they find themselves drafting outside the top five, which is highly probable in a stacked 2025 draft class, securing a player like this Duke guard/wing would provide Toronto with immediate value. The Raptors would get a player capable of contributing right away without the need to wait for a full developmental period. His readiness to step in could make him a game-changer, potentially accelerating Toronto’s rebuilding timeline and making them a competitive team sooner than later.
The 2025 NBA Draft is loaded with talent, and while the Raptors’ main focus might be landing a top prospect like Flagg or others, the depth of the draft means that the team could still find a gem with the right selection. Whether it’s through the lottery or in the mid-first round, the Raptors should keep a close eye on this Duke prospect as a potential cornerstone for their future. If they lose out on a true star in the lottery, this player could be the perfect piece to build around moving forward.
