As the NBA Draft nears, the Toronto Raptors seem poised to make a decisive move by targeting Providence Friars guard Devin Carter with their 19th pick. At 6-foot-2, Carter, who recently completed his third collegiate year, presents a classic example of a player with a solid foundation yet modest flashiness—qualities that align perfectly with the Raptors’ current needs.
Devin Carter may not dazzle crowds with flashy dunks or viral moments, but his consistent performance and defensive prowess have caught the eye of scouts and analysts alike. Described by CBS’s Kyle Boone as a player who “was immense as a breakout junior,” Carter combines an elite defensive skill set with an improving offensive game, making him a strong candidate for Toronto’s roster.
Devin Carter Could Be A Guard The Raptors Need At 19 In The 2024 NBA Draft pic.twitter.com/YsjbezumNq
— Kadeem (@kdeemoo) May 16, 2024
The Devin Carter Advantage: Reliability and Defense
The Raptors have a notable gap to fill in their lineup, particularly for a reliable backup point guard behind Immanuel Quickley. Devin Carter, who boasts a 37.7% accuracy from the three-point line and impressive averages of 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, appears ready to step into this role.
His ability to perform consistently on the court is especially critical for a team like the Raptors, who are looking to strengthen their on-ball defense without the need for extensive development time in the G League.
Devin Carter’s appeal isn’t limited to his stats alone. As the son of former NBA guard Anthony Carter, he brings a legacy of basketball acumen and a deep understanding of the game. His defensive capabilities, which include nearly two steals and a block per game, make him a formidable presence against the league’s best guards.
Impact on the Raptors’ Strategy
The decision to draft Devin Carter could signal a strategic shift for the Raptors. While it remains unclear whether the team is aiming to contend immediately or continue rebuilding for the future, Devin Carter’s addition would undeniably enhance their competitiveness next season.
His maturity and readiness to contribute from day one could be exactly what Toronto needs to solidify their defense and improve their backcourt rotation.
If the Raptors do select Devin Carter with their 19th pick, it would not only fill a crucial position need but also add a layer of defensive reliability that has been missing. Devin Carter’s proven track record and potential for immediate impact make him an ideal choice for a team looking to make significant strides in the upcoming NBA season.
