Raptors nab Gradey Dick with No. 13 pick

With the No. 13 pick in the 2023 NBA Draft, the Toronto Raptors added Kansas sharpshooter Gradey Dick.

Well-known for his proficiency from beyond the arc, the Jayhawks freshman shot 40.3% from three and ranked second in 3-point makes in the Big 12 conference with 83. His shooting touch extends to the free-throw line as well, where he knocked down 85.4% of his attempts.

Dick uses the threat of his shot-making from deep to get to the basket on a variety of drives, showing a ton of activity and movement as a wing. Even with considerable defensive questions, his size and offensive traits suggest that the 19-year-old can be a superb connective piece for an NBA club.

Bio

Position: Forward
School: Kansas
College experience: Freshman
Height: 6-foot-6
Weight: 204 lbs
Wingspan: 6-foot-9
Max vertical: 34 inches

2022-23 stats with Kansas

Strengths

• Definition of a shooting specialist. Can make different types of shots from a variety of spots behind the arc - including attempts in transition, catch-and-shoot from other ball-handlers, and handoffs. He gets his shots off quickly without rushing and impacting his stellar form.
• Despite a slight frame, he's unafraid to drive to the basket or to throw down the occasional transition hammer. Often finds himself ahead of teammates after turnovers to get easy looks at the basket.
• Even with his lack of weight, Dick gives effort on defense. Can draw charges when he beats players to their spots and deflect loose balls.

Weaknesses

• A leaner weight and frame will hinder his ability to defend at a high or even competent level. Was targeted at Kansas in his lone collegiate season; NBA teams will expose his shortcomings at this point in his development.
• Doesn't have a great second option in his offensive arsenal as a creator. Could struggle to score when 3-pointers are taken away from him.

NBA comparable: Taller Gary Trent Jr. Although Trent is a bit shorter than Dick, the two wings shot similarly from deep in college. A second-round pick, Trent has a 38.4% career 3-point percentage over six seasons in the NBA. If Dick can reach 41.8% from deep at some point in his career - Trent's best mark in a season - he'll make his next team extremely happy.