The Raptors have made good on underdeveloped talent in the late first round before (see: Siakam, Pascal). Leandro Bolmaro has a whole lot of talent, and he has even played real minutes in Euroleague — a notable accomplishment for anyone under 20. That said, Bolmaro has a ways to go before he’s a consistent NBA weapon.
At 6-foot-8, Bolmaro has flashes of skill comparable to most point guards. He’s comfortable making plays out of the pick-and-roll, he’s a fluid scorer from the mid-range, and his defense deserves serious credit. He can guard three positions. That said, until Bolmaro irons out his 3-point shot, some of his most appealing skills are largely moot.
If Bolmaro can’t threaten defenses from the 3-point line, then his value as a face-up scorer and playmaker is greatly diminished. And so on. For the Raptors, however, this is the opportunity to undertake another long-term project. Bolmaro may even spend next season overseas. A few years down the road, Toronto could strike gold.