Mar 13, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Southern California Trojans guard Boogie Ellis (5) reacts after a three-point basket against the Washington Huskies at T-Mobile Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Boogie Ellis, a 6-foot-1 guard from USC, has recently caught the attention of NBA draft circles. Initially, Ellis wasn’t a prominent name on many draft boards.
The 23-year-old fifth-year senior was slated to showcase his skills at the G League combine, aiming for a spot on a G League team next season. However, Ellis’ impressive performance has elevated his status, pushing him into potential draft discussions, particularly towards the end of the second round.
Boogie Ellis’ Rising Stock
Boogie Ellis has shown remarkable prowess as a three-point shooter, boasting a 41.8% success rate on 7.2 attempts per game this past season with the Trojans. Despite his shooting acumen, the rest of his offensive game needs development.
Ellis is not yet a refined playmaker and hasn’t demonstrated the necessary passing skills to be a traditional point guard. Averaging 16.5 points per game, his assist-to-turnover ratio of 3-to-1.8 leaves room for improvement.
Defensive Concerns and Potential Fit
Defensively, Boogie Ellis’ size presents challenges, especially if he can’t secure the point guard position. With a 6-foot-7 wingspan, he can play larger than his height suggests, but his slight stature and relatively thin frame limit him to defending guards at the next level.
Toronto’s Perspective
The Toronto Raptors, reportedly, have conducted a workout with Boogie Ellis ahead of the draft, according to HoopsHype. While it’s unlikely Boogie Ellis is a contender for Toronto’s No. 31 pick, the organization might consider him a priority draft signing or a late draft pick if they slide further back in the second round.
Toronto is in need of a backup point guard. Currently, Javon Freeman-Liberty is the primary reserve behind Immanuel Quickley. There is a possibility that Ellis could make the Raptors roster on a two-way deal. The organization previously took a chance on Markquis Nowell after last season’s draft, and Ellis fits a similar profile.
Looking Ahead
Boogie Ellis‘ journey from a G League hopeful to an NBA draft prospect highlights his potential and growth. For the Toronto Raptors, his shooting ability and defensive wingspan make him an intriguing prospect. As the draft approaches, it remains to be seen if Ellis’ name will be called, but his recent performances have certainly put him on the radar.
With the draft drawing near, Raptors fans and NBA enthusiasts alike will be keenly watching to see if Boogie Ellis can transition from a standout college player to a promising NBA talent. His journey serves as a reminder of how quickly fortunes can change with dedication and standout performances.
