Jonathan Mogbo’s Raptors Journey: From Promising Pick to Depth Option
When the Raptors used the 31st pick in the 2024 NBA Draft to select Jonathan Mogbo, they weren’t just betting on athleticism and defensive upside - they were investing in a player who looked like a perfect fit for their developmental pipeline. Mogbo, a high-motor forward with the tools to guard multiple positions and contribute across the stat sheet, checked a lot of boxes for Toronto. He wasn’t a floor-spacer - his three-point shot still a work in progress - but his versatility and energy made him a classic Raptors project.
There was also a personal connection that added a little extra intrigue: Mogbo’s longtime friendship with Scottie Barnes, dating back to their childhood. While Raptors GM Bobby Webster has downplayed the idea that the pick was influenced by that relationship, there’s no denying the potential chemistry boost that comes from adding one of your franchise cornerstone’s closest friends.
But this wasn’t just a feel-good story. The Raptors had options at 31 - names like Kyle Filipowski, Ajay Mitchell, and Jaylen Wells were still on the board.
Choosing Mogbo was a calculated move, one that suggested the team saw a path for him to carve out a role. And early on, it looked like that bet might pay off.
A Promising Start
Mogbo’s rookie season didn’t turn heads league-wide, but for those watching closely, there were flashes. He showed off the kind of do-it-all game that made him intriguing in the first place - rebounding, defending, pushing the pace in transition, and occasionally flirting with double-doubles or even triple-doubles. He didn’t need plays run for him to make an impact, and that’s exactly the kind of player that tends to thrive in Toronto’s system.
Heading into year two, it wasn’t unreasonable to think Mogbo would solidify a spot in the Raptors’ second unit - especially as the team leaned into its youth movement. But fast forward to 2026, and the situation looks very different.
The Emergence of CMB - and the Decline of Mogbo’s Role
Enter Collin Murray-Boyles. The rookie big man has come in and essentially taken over the role Mogbo was projected to grow into. Murray-Boyles has brought size, mobility, and a more polished offensive game to the table - and that’s pushed Mogbo down the depth chart in a big way.
The numbers tell the story. Mogbo has appeared in just 21 games this season, averaging 6.6 minutes - a steep drop from the 20.4 minutes per game he logged as a rookie.
His production has understandably taken a hit too: 1.4 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 0.5 assists per game. That’s a far cry from the versatile contributor the Raptors hoped they were developing.
It’s not just Mogbo feeling the squeeze. With Toronto shifting back into competitive mode, the leash for young players has gotten shorter. Gradey Dick and Ochai Agbaji are also seeing their roles reduced as the Raptors prioritize winning now over experimentation.
What’s Next for Mogbo?
Mogbo has spent most of his time this season with Raptors 905, Toronto’s G League affiliate. He’s had some decent outings there, but nothing that’s forced the front office to give him another extended look with the main squad. And with the rotation tightening and the Raptors chasing wins, opportunities aren’t exactly plentiful.
At this point, Mogbo’s future in Toronto is uncertain. He’s still on his rookie deal, so there’s no immediate pressure to make a move, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see his name surface in trade talks - especially if the Raptors are looking to consolidate or add veteran depth. Alternatively, he could finish out his contract as an end-of-bench option, waiting for another chance that might never come.
Final Thoughts
Jonathan Mogbo’s story with the Raptors isn’t over, but it’s certainly hit a crossroads. What started as a promising second-round pick with ties to the team’s franchise player has turned into a case study in how quickly things can change in the NBA. Mogbo still has the tools to contribute at this level - the question is whether he’ll get the chance to do it in Toronto, or if the next chapter of his career will be written elsewhere.