LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - AUGUST 08: Dalano Banton #45 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
The Toronto Raptors decided to use their 2021 NBA Draft picks to select versatile players, placing a premium on wingspan, defensive intensity, and ball-handling. That philosophy not only led to the selection of Scottie Barnes with the No. 4 overall pick, but it also helped the front office settle on Dalano Banton with the No. 46 selection.
Banton, a Rexdale native who made his name at Nebraska following a transfer away from Western Kentucky, is a bit raw on the offensive end, but with guard-like skills in a 6-9 package, Toronto liked him enough to make him the first Canadian player ever drafted by the squad.