The Toronto Raptors are looking to revitalize their franchise after a disappointing 30-52 season that left them out of the playoffs for the fourth time in five years. Despite their struggles, the franchise has secured the No. 9 pick in the upcoming NBA Draft and boasts a promising young core led by Scottie Barnes and the newly acquired Brandon Ingram, who has yet to make his Raptors debut. The team is also exploring major trade opportunities, notably for stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kevin Durant. Recent reports indicate mutual interest between Antetokounmpo and the Raptors, while insiders believe Toronto could have a realistic chance of acquiring Durant from the Phoenix Suns, who are reportedly looking to make significant changes after missing the playoffs. A potential trade for Durant could position the Raptors as competitive contenders in the Eastern Conference.

Noa Essengue, an 18-year-old French prospect currently playing for Ratiopharm Ulm in Germany's top league, is generating buzz as a potential top-10 pick in the upcoming NBA draft. Standing at 6'10" and weighing 200 pounds, Essengue is known for his versatility, quickness, and shooting ability, making him a fit for the modern NBA. His recent playoff performance, where he recorded a career-high 22 points and 14 rebounds, showcased his skill set.

While some may draw comparisons to the presumptive No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg, Essengue's unique traits shine through. He boasts a strong field goal percentage of 51.6% while showcasing a balanced offensive game, capable of both driving to the basket and hitting three-pointers. His defense is noted for its ability to disrupt passing lanes and create space with his length.

Experts believe that Essengue could be a perfect fit for the Toronto Raptors, who might select him ninth overall. With Toronto's emphasis on player development, Essengue would have the luxury of time to mature and refine his skills without immediate pressure. His recent performances against seasoned professionals could outweigh concerns about his lack of pre-draft workouts, suggesting that the experience he gains in high-intensity environments may be more valuable than traditional showcases. The Raptors have historically taken chances on under-the-radar players, and Essengue fits this mold.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander showcased his MVP credentials with a stellar performance, scoring 40 points, pulling down 10 rebounds, and dishing out nine assists, leading the Oklahoma City Thunder to a 128-126 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 4. This win not only helped the Thunder bounce back from a previous 42-point defeat but also put them ahead 3-1 in the Western Conference Finals.

Jalen Williams contributed significantly with 34 points, including six three-pointers, while Chet Holmgren added 21 points and seven rebounds. Gilgeous-Alexander's clutch free throws in the final moments and the Thunder's defense, which stifled Wolves' stars like Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle, were crucial factors in this tightly contested match.

ESPN's latest 2025 NBA Draft mock reveals potential shifts for college basketball prospects, particularly from Illinois. Cooper Flagg's selection by the Mavericks raises eyebrows, while Kasparas Jakucionis and Will Riley are positioned within the lottery. Jakucionis is projected to go No. 10 to the Houston Rockets, who face a crucial choice regarding their point guards, Fred VanVleet and Aaron Holiday. Meanwhile, Riley, forecasted at No. 16 to the Orlando Magic, might struggle to find a role amid established players like Franz Wagner and Jalen Suggs.

The Rockets must decide whether to invest in their veteran guards or embrace new talent like Jakucionis. If selected, he could be pivotal in reshaping their backcourt alongside emerging stars like Jalen Green. Conversely, Riley's potential fit on the Magic remains uncertain, as their wing positions are crowded, though he could provide a fresh dynamic away from the Wolverines.

As the fantasy basketball season intensifies, many managers find themselves in a race for valuable players. With limited moves available, streaming options are crucial. Rostered in under 50% of leagues, players like Scotty Pippen Jr. of the Memphis Grizzlies and Gary Trent Jr. from the Milwaukee Bucks are making waves. Pippen, thriving in Ja Morant's absence, averages 14.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 7.2 assists over his last six games. Similarly, Trent has stepped up significantly following Damian Lillard's indefinite absence, averaging 14.9 points with solid contributions in steals and three-pointers.

Completing the list are Kevin Porter Jr., Orlando Robinson, Ryan Dunn, and Jordan Hawkins. Porter, a risqué pick, offers high upside despite inconsistency, while Robinson is starting to find his footing as the Raptors close out the season. Dunn's recent surge for the Suns is noteworthy, and Hawkins has emerged as a scoring threat for a struggling Pelicans team. As the postseason approaches, these players could prove vital for your fantasy roster.