2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks land defensive stopper, Warriors add another shooter
By Noah Weber
13. Toronto Raptors acquire Jalen Hood-Schifino
The Toronto Raptors are in a tough spot for this year's NBA Draft.
It looks like Gary Trent Jr. and Fred VanVleet are out the door, and Jakob Poeltl's future in Toronto is also in question. For now, they have to build on what they have with Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby even though Siakam and Anunoby could be gone soon as well.
A safe pick in this slot is selecting Indiana guard Jalen Hood-Scifino.
Hood-Schifino averaged 13.5 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.7 assists per game while shooting 33.3 percent from three. He would fit great next to Scottie Barnes as he has good size and plays solid defense. Toronto could throw out elite defensive lineups that include Hood-Schifino, Barnes, Anunoby, and Siakam all on the court at once.
That team would be fun to watch and they'd have a VanVleet or Trent Jr. replacement right away. Although he can't shoot as well as either one of them, he still looks like he will be a solid combo guard at the NBA level.
He also brings great hustle as an off-ball defender. Hood-Schifino deflects passes often and has the motor to play with high intensity. He would thrive in Toronto, and having insurance in the case that either of their guards leaves this summer is ideal.