Toronto Raptors: Malachi Flynn, Jalen Harris have potential to be stars

Toronto Raptors’ rookies have the potential to become big-time players

Toronto Raptors‘ Malachi Flynn and Jalen Harris have the potential to become a great backcourt tandem in the future. The two rookie guards possess the skills and mentality to excel at the NBA level. They are in good hands with the Raptors – who are known for their development and ability to maximize players’ potential (look to Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam).

The Raptors drafted Malachi Flynn and Jalen Harris with their 29th and 59th picks in the 2020 NBA Draft, respectfully. The two guards are well rounded with attributes that complement each other well. They hold sturdy fundamentals, an internal drive to become great, and a “bet on yourself attitude” (who have we heard that from before?).

Flynn and Harris had fantastic campaigns at San Diego State and Nevada, which prompted their selections in this years’ draft. Both were slightly overlooked because of size and possible fit, though the Raptors saw two prototypes that could develop and work with their system.

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The Raptors’ new additions both had similar collegiate paths in which they transferred schools and sat out for one year. Flynn started his journey at Washington State before joining the Aztecs in San Diego. While Harris was at Louisiana Tech before moving to Reno. The year off helped both hone their on-court skills while also utilizing time to study film.

Malachi and Jalen were big contributors to their college squads once they were back in action. They commanded the offensive side of the floor with their scoring (Flynn – 17.6 PPG, Harris – 21.7 PPG) and playmaking (Flynn – 5.1 APG, Harris – 3.9 APG). Both were able to attack and score from 3 levels: at the rim, mid-range, and behind the arc. Added to this, they have solid ball-handling and herky-jerky styles that help them create space from opponents.

Toronto was the right spot for these two rookies

Paired together, these rookies could become a great tandem in the backcourt. I could see them starting their journey in the G League with the Raptors 905. This would allow them the freedom to develop individually while also being introduced to the big clubs’ on-court style and system.

The modern NBA team is defined by having players at each position that can score on their own and make plays for others. Flynn and Harris fit right into this mold. Both can create their own shot while also able to find teammates when it is the right play.

Being more than capable creators will only enhance the chemistry and tandem playmaking. They will always have the confidence in the other to make the right decision available (both on and off-ball). This will be the ultimate key to their future success – the ability to flow off each other’s spontaneity

A major point to consider is that Kyle Lowry’s contract ends next season. It is up in the air as to what happens to the Toronto Raptors’ future roster. Will they sign Giannis? Will Lowry come back? If not, there will be space for a guard or two to fill in. This could provide an opportunity for both Flynn and Harris to eat up some backcourt minutes with the big club.

No matter how their careers unfold – presently – they are in the best position to maximize their basketball skills and contribute to a well-renowned team in the Toronto Raptors.