2021 NBA Mock Draft — 4. Jalen Suggs, Toronto Raptors
The Raptors have been linked to Scottie Barnes, but with Kyle Lowry’s impending free agency, Jalen Suggs feels like the clear choice. He’s a natural-born leader who would fit right into the system and culture Nick Nurse has cultivated in Toronto. Also, with the Raptors likely aspiring to a postseason return in 2022, Suggs gives them an immediate impact starter.
It’s not hard to write off last season as a fluke for Toronto. They spent the entire season in Tampa, and were thrown out of rhythm time and time again by injuries and COVID. That roster can still contend. Suggs has the size and versatility to share the backcourt with Fred VanVleet, and the playmaking juice to quickly take charge as the Raptors’ lead ball-handler.
Suggs’ swagger and confidence are hard to overstate. He plays like a guy who knows he can cut it. He led Gonzaga all the way to the national championship game, and before that, one of the best NCAA seasons in recent memory. He can score at every level, he’s normally one step ahead of the defense, and he will leave it all on the floor defensively. He’s the perfect way to kick off the post-Lowry era.
BIG BOARD RANKING: 4