Toronto Raptors 2005 Draft Preview

Forward Chris Bosh averaged 16.8 points and 8.9 rebounds in his second year in the league for the Raptors, who were just 33-49. The 21-year-old Bosh, who was the fourth overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft, has turned out to be everything Toronto had hoped for. He is quickly becoming the cornerstone of the franchise.

Toronto also has swingman Jalen Rose, who led the club in scoring (18.5 ppg), and point guard Rafer Alston, who averaged 14.2 points and a team-high 6.4 assists per game. Rose has a big contract and could be involved in trade talks in the offseason, while the Raptors are happy with Alston running the point.

Donyell Marshall averaged 11.5 points and 6.5 rebounds in 65 games, but the forward can become an unrestricted free agent and sign with a different team in the offseason. Swingman Morris Peterson netted 12.5 per contest and gives Toronto a solid, versatile player.

The Raptors need to get tougher inside. With the seventh and 16th overall selections, they should be able to find a pair of players that can make a contribution next season and help them get back to contending for the playoffs.

Key Player(s): Rafer Alston (Guard), Rafael Araujo (Center), Chris Bosh (Forward), Donyell Marshall (Forward), Morris Peterson (Guard), Jalen Rose (Forward).

Team Needs: Inside scoring and toughness, an outside shooter a shot blocker and size.

Draft picks: 1st round (7th overall), 1st round (16th overall), 2nd round (38th overall), 2nd round (58th overall).