2023 NBA Mock Draft: Mavericks land difference-maker, Victor Wembanyama heads East

23. Portland Trail Blazers (via Knicks) select Rayan Rupert

Rupert feels like a one-dimensional prospect at this stage. The 19-year-old from France is a strong defender both on and off the ball. He is a 6’6 wing with a 7’3 wingspan. Effort is never a question, and some scouts believe he can be an on-ball stopper and a disrupter off the ball that creates havoc with his ability to jump passing lanes and create turnovers.

Rupert’s offensive game will determine his role and ceiling in the NBA. He can handle the ball, but he averaged less than one assists per game playing in the NBL this season. Rupert was limited by a broken wrist, so his games, playing time, and production were limited. Still, he is a below-average shooter that does not offer much in terms of offensive output.

The 19-year-old could go anywhere from the late lottery to the late first round on draft night. His defensive potential is intriguing, but can he produce enough offense to stay on the floor? His sister plays in the WNBA and his father was captain of the French National Team, so his pedigree could help. Still, there are plenty of unanswered questions.

The Portland Trail Blazers desperately need wing defense, so they pair Rupert with Jarace Walker to form a young duo with immense potential on that end of the floor.