With the fourth overall pick, the Toronto Raptors have been heavily linked to Gonzaga guard Jalen Suggs ahead of the NBA draft. However, the organization is also said to be considering Florida State guard Scottie Barnes.
The first three picks in the draft are widely expected to go, Cade Cunningham, Jalen Green and Evan Mobley in some order. Barring one of those prospects dropping, Suggs is the heavy favorite to land with the Raptors.
While Suggs going to the Raptors projects to be a great fit, the team also has Barnes on its radar. According to Sam Vecenie of The Athletic, Toronto could target him with the fourth pick.
Sources certainly believe the Raptors are indeed considering Scottie Barnes in addition to the consensus top-four names. Additionally, this pick is thought to be available for the right price in a trade-down scenario. But Suggs at No. 4 would be a home run for the Raptors.
Barnes is most commonly projected to go in the 5-8 range with the Orlando Magic and Oklahoma City Thunder the favorites to land him. Of course, if Toronto takes him with the fourth pick, they would be forced to choose another player.
With just over a week to go until the draft, it would seem highly likely the Raptors stay the course and take Suggs. Barnes may be highly regarded entering the draft, but Suggs is strongly considered one of the top-four prospects this year with his ability and potential at the next level.
Certainly, it will be interesting to watch how the top of the draft unfolds.
This post originally appeared on Rookie Wire! Follow us on Facebook!
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