2012 NBA Draft: Toronto Raptors' Early Mock Draft

While the 2012 NBA season has been one to forget for the Toronto Raptors, there is no way to temper the excitement over their potential in 2013.

With first-round draft choice Jonas Valanciunas joining Andrea Bargnani in the Raptors' frontcourt, Toronto could see something they're not too used to: a serious contender. In order to reach that goal, however, the Raptors must surround those players with the necessary talent.

For a Raptors team who has never thrived in signing big-name free agents, the best possible way to build is from the ground up.

Draft your future.

First Round, Pick 4: Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Small Forward, Kentucky Wildcats

While Harrison Barnes is, by far, the better player, there isn't a better fit for the Raptors' playing style than Kentucky's Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

The addition of yet another non-shooter would certainly be a hindrance, but when you consider the potential athleticism of the Raptors' wing, it's hard to pass up.

MKG and DeMar DeRozan both possess the ability to dominate in the open court and DeRozan has a developing mid-range game. If Kidd-Gilchrist can follow in his footsteps, it would be unlikely that you could find a more promising perimeter league-wide.

As for the defensive side of the ball, where the Raptors must improve, that's where MKG truly shines. He is a tough, physical defender who isn't afraid to foul and send a message. He's also a ball hawk who constantly finds a way to come up with offense through defense.

In other words, he's a perfect fit.

Season Averages: 12.0 ppg, 7.8 rpg, 1.2 spg, 1.1 bpg

Second Round, Pick 34: Myck Kabongo, Point Guard, Texas Longhorns

Until there is certainty about Jose Calderon's future with the Raptors, I can't help but predict them taking a young point guard.

Myck Kabongo out of Texas is as pure of a point guard as they come, displaying excellent court vision and an uncanny ability to put the ball right where it needs to be. He is also an excellent defender who never lets up when the ball isn't in his hands.

As for his ability to score, Kabongo has great range beyond the three-point line. He also has ball handling skills that enable him to cut through any defense, thus allowing him to finish at the basket with relative ease.

While most young players display poor body language and an attitude that needs to be fixed, Kabongo has seen his stock soar based on his leadership qualities alone. He is a positive player who always seems to motivate his teammates through his unselfish play.

This would be a true steal for the Toronto Raptors.

Season Averages: 9.8 ppg, 5.3 apg, 3.0 rpg, 1.2 spg