Toronto Raptors Rookie Watch - Collin Murray-Boyles

The Toronto Raptors appear set on a certain type of player, adding 6’7” forward to a roster that already includes Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, Gradey Dick, and role players such as Jonathan Mogbo and Jamison Battle. Yet despite having a plethora of players of similar size and build, GM Bobby Webster and staff surprised many when they added yet another player of equal build by selecting Collin Murray-Boyles with the ninth pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. 

In his short audition period with the Raptors throughout the summer and during his two seasons at South Carolina, Murray-Boyles drew attention from scouts and opposing coaches with his effort on the defensive end of the court. Armed with a 7’1” wingspan, Murray-Boyles' strength, footwork, and versatility led him to become one of the top defensive players of his entire draft class. 

Averaging 16.8 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists during his sophomore season, which was his final year with the Gamecocks, Murray-Boyles showed his versatility to Raptors management and the rest of the NBA during his four Summer League games, including a stat-filling effort against the Warriors with 20 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 4 steals. 

For a Raptors team desperately trying to claw back into playoff contention after struggling for the past few years, Murray-Boyles fits perfectly into Toronto’s switching defensive scheme while providing frontcourt depth alongside stars Barnes, Ingram, and Barrett. His ability to guard multiple positions and create havoc on the defensive glass could earn him significant minutes early in the season. 

While he is capable of contributing on the offensive end, as evident in Las Vegas, don’t expect Murray-Boyles to light up the scoreboard immediately, as his offensive game is still developing. Unless the Raptors move one of their forwards to clear up the logjam, minutes for the rookie could be tough to come by. Expectations of 7-9 points, 5-6 rebounds, and 1-2 steals per game are realistic if Murray-Boyles can secure a regular rotation spot.