At just 18 years old, Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis has already drawn comparisons to some of the best European playmakers in recent NBA history—think Luka Doncic’s vision, Ricky Rubio’s flair, and Goran Dragic’s craftiness.
While he’s still raw, his elite passing, high-IQ decision-making, and fearless scoring make him one of the most intriguing international prospects in the 2025 NBA Draft.
Will the Toronto Raptors Go For Kasparas Jakucionis?
Pro Football and Sports Network predicts him to be the No. 9 overall pick in the upcoming draft, putting him on the Toronto Raptors’ radar. His scout report highlights his dynamism as a playmaker:
“Jakucionis gives the Raptors a smart, versatile backcourt piece with intriguing long-term upside. He’s one of the most creative passers in this draft class, showcasing elite vision with skip passes, precision in the pick-and-roll, and the ability to hit cutters in stride.”
“While his turnover numbers at Illinois were high, they often came from trying to make high-level plays while carrying a heavy offensive burden as a freshman.”
Undoubtedly, Jakucionis is a pass-first maestro with an uncanny ability to read defenses and deliver pinpoint dimes. In addition, unlike many young guards, he already operates like a seasoned pro in the pick-and-roll (PnR), using hesitations, changes of pace, and clever angles to manipulate defenses.
His ability to hit rollers, find shooters, or pull up mid-range makes him a nightmare to guard.
Kasparas Jakucionis boasts an impressive combination of size (6’6″), toughness, pace, feel for the game, playmaking, and shot-making prowess. He’s an outstanding pick-and-roll player who plays an intelligent and unselfish style, helping him transition from Europe to college. https://t.co/Ne4psVkslQ pic.twitter.com/7TtTpEh8tE
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) April 14, 2025
European Basketball DNA
While not an explosive athlete, he uses Euro steps, floaters, and step-backs to create space. His three-point shooting (31.8% in his college career) is improving, and his off-the-dribble pull-up could become a weapon.
On the other hand, at 6’6”, he has great size for a playmaker, allowing him to switch and disrupt passing lanes. His high motor and instincts suggest he could develop into a plus team defender.
Why the Raptors Might Be The Perfect Fit
The Raptors have a proven track record of developing international talent (Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby) and thrive with versatile, high-IQ playmakers. Add to that that Toronto head coach Darko Rajaković loves creative passers and positionless basketball. Ergo, Jakucionis would thrive in a motion-heavy, read-and-react offense.
His PNR chemistry with Jakob Poeltl could mirror his EuroLeague success with big men.
Another point in the Raptors’ favor is that Toronto’s G League team, Raptors 905, is one of the best at refining young talent (see Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley). The franchise’s player development staff excels at improving shooting and decision-making—two areas where Jakucionis could make a leap.
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With Scottie Barnes as the primary creator, Jakucionis could be the secondary playmaker, running the offense in spurts. His size allows him to play next to Quickley or Barnes without sacrificing defense.
If the Raptors take a chance on Jakucionis, they could be getting the next great European floor general—a player who blends old-school creativity with modern versatility. With Toronto’s development system and his natural feel for the game, the Lithuanian future superstar could be the steal of the draft.
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