With their first pick at No. 9 in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Toronto Raptors have little chance of selecting Duke star center Khaman Maluach. However, there’s enough talent in the draft to fill their need for a power player. The question now is: Should they choose Noa Essengue or Kasparas Jakucionis?
Tough Decision for the Toronto Raptors
It is indeed a pivotal decision for the Raptors’ drafting team, led by president Masai Ujiri, as they look to add young talent to their rebuilding roster. Esengue and Jakucionis are two intriguing international prospects who emerge as potential targets, bringing unique skill sets.
Let’s take a closer look.
Noa Esengue: The High-Upside Wing
The 18-year-old Frenchman entered the draft after developing his skills in France and Germany. He played 52 games with Ratiopharm Ulm during the 2024–25 season, averaging 10.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game.
Kasparas Jakucionis 3-point spot shooting drill at the NBA draft combine pic.twitter.com/u4nQr5yi2E
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 13, 2025
His elite athleticism and length have been widely recognized. Standing at 6’8″ with a strong frame and explosive leaping ability, Esengue has the physical tools to develop into a versatile NBA player.
Add to that his defensive potential. His lateral quickness and wingspan allow him to guard multiple positions, which fits Toronto’s switch-heavy defensive schemes.
Offensively, he excels at attacking the rim with power and has shown flashes of playmaking off the dribble. However, his inconsistent shooting remains a work in progress, which could limit his offensive impact early on.
Despite his need to improve his offensive skills, Toronto has previously prioritized length and defensive versatility (Scottie Barnes and OG Anunoby), making Esengue a natural developmental piece. If the Raptors believe they can improve his shooting, he could be a long-term starter.
Kasparas Jakucionis: The Skilled Playmaker
The 19-year-old Lithuanian proved he was ready for the next stage in just one season with Illinois. He averaged 15 points per game over 33 games, shooting 44% on two-pointers, 31.4% from the perimeter, and 84.5% from the free-throw line.
However, it is his elite playmaking ability and basketball IQ that set him apart. Jakoucionis is a crafty guard with excellent court vision who can run an offense and make advanced reads.
Offensively, his mechanics are solid, and he has shown the ability to hit pull-up threes. Besides that, his ability to manipulate defenses as a ball-handler makes him a strong fit in modern NBA offenses.
In the cons column is that, at 6’6″ with average athleticism, he may struggle against quicker NBA guards. His high-risk passing can lead to mistakes, especially against NBA-level defensive pressure.
Right now, Toronto lacks a true lead playmaker outside of Immanuel Quickley. Jakucionis could provide much-needed backcourt creativity, but his defensive concerns may clash with the Raptors’ identity.
Verdict: Who Should the Raptors Draft?
If prioritizing upside & defense: Noa Esengue is the better choice. His two-way potential aligns with Toronto’s long-term vision.
KEEP READING: Why College Basketball Players Keep Transfer Options Open After Declaring for the NBA Draft
If seeking immediate backcourt help: Kasparas Jakucionis offers more offensive polish but comes with defensive risks.
Given Toronto’s emphasis on player development and defensive versatility, Esengue might be the smarter pick. However, if the Raptors believe Jakucionis can improve his defense, his playmaking could be a game-changer.
Final Decision: Noa Esengue (higher ceiling, better fit with Raptors’ culture).
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
