Raptors Rookie Allen Graves Emerges as Early Draft Steal
While Toronto rookie Allen Graves turns heads with his early-season impact, the Raptors recently fell to the Orlando Magic in Emirates NBA Cup action.
The Toronto Raptors continue to demonstrate their proficiency in the NBA draft, finding another potential hidden gem in forward Allen Graves. Selected 19th overall in the 2026 draft, the 20-year-old rookie has quickly made the most of his minutes on the floor and is already drawing praise as one of the biggest steals of his class.
Though traditional box score numbers for Graves have been modest, his per-36-minute statistics through his first three games highlight a player ready to make a significant impact off the bench. He is averaging 14.1 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists, 3.9 blocks, and 1.6 steals per 36 minutes, showcasing the high-level defensive versatility and floor awareness that the franchise has prioritized over the past decade.
Writing for Bleacher Report, Grant Hughes highlighted Graves' unique trajectory by describing him as a true "little things" superstar. Hughes noted that the rookie possesses innate timing and anticipation, along with tremendous hands and exceptional length at 6-foot-9, which successfully compensate for limited run-and-jump athleticism.
The physical build and defensive intangibles fit seamlessly into the established Raptors identity. Graves has the capability to guard in space and provide valuable rim protection alongside frontcourt players like Jakob Poeltl and Collin Murray-Boyles. While his three-point shooting remains an area for growth in volume and consistency following a 41.3 percent shooting season at Santa Clara, his defensive upside and motor have made him an essential piece to watch.
With veteran forward Kawhi Leonard currently sidelined and expected to miss significant time due to injury, Raptors fans may receive an extended look at Graves' full capabilities over the coming months. He joins a forward rotation that already features established contributors like Scottie Barnes, Ja’Kobi Walter, and Murray-Boyles.
In team competition, the Raptors recently experienced a mix of results in their matchups against the Orlando Magic. After securing a 129-99 victory earlier in the week, Toronto dropped a 121-114 decision to the Magic at Scotiabank Arena in their opening Emirates NBA Cup fixture on Friday.
The Magic rebounded behind a stellar performance from Franz Wagner, who recorded 26 points and a game-high 11 assists. Orlando managed the road victory despite playing without key players Paolo Banchero and Jalen Suggs, leaning on balanced scoring contributions from Desmond Bane, Anthony Black, Wendell Carter Jr., and Jamal Cain to secure the win.