The Toronto Raptors are optimistic heading into the NBA draft, but face challenges in finding talent due to the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era. The NIL era has made it more appealing for college players to stay in school and profit from their name, image, and likeness, rather than entering the draft. As a result, the Raptors and other teams are finding it increasingly difficult to find NBA-quality talent outside of the top half of the draft. According to Raptors assistant general manager Dan Tolzman, the NIL era has impacted the team's ability to find players in the 20s range. Tolzman noted that players who would have been considered in this range in the past have opted to stay in school, making it harder for teams to find suitable replacements. Despite the challenges, the Raptors have found success with players like Ja'Kobe Walter, who was taken 19th overall in the 2024 draft. Walter has proven to be a valuable contributor to the team, leading the Raptors in three-point shooting percentage and showing signs of being a multi-positional defender. He has also had impressive moments in the playoffs, averaging 19.0 points per game and 38.7 minutes played. The Raptors have a history of finding gems in the later stages of the draft, including Norman Powell, Delon Wright, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby. They have also signed undrafted free agents like Fred VanVleet, who has become a key player for the team. The Raptors will look to continue this trend in the upcoming draft, where they will pick 19th and 50th.