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Report: Raptors, Konate agree to deal

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The Toronto Raptors have agreed to a deal with undrafted West Virginia center Sagaba Konate, a league source told The Athletic's Michael Scotto.

Konate is one of the best rim-protectors in this year's class. The 22-year-old is the Mountaineers' all-time leading shot-blocker and ranked third in the nation with 3.2 rejections per contest during the 2017-18 season. Konate's strong play earned him an invite to the NBA combine and he considered going pro that year before ultimately returning to school.

His decision didn't work out, as a knee injury forced him to shut down his junior campaign after just seven appearances. But despite a limited offensive skill set, his outstanding energy and shot-blocking instincts could make him a serviceable backup big man for years.

Bio

Position: C
School: West Virginia
College experience: Junior
Height: 6-foot-8
Weight: 246 lbs
Wingspan: 7-feet
Max vertical: N/A

What the analysts are saying

  • "Amazing shot-blocker with excellent instincts and fundamentals. Has full command of the rule of verticality, keeping his hands straight up without fouling." - The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor
  • "He’s a powerful athlete, but his heavy build and lack of a defined offensive skill set might impede him from NBA success." - Sports Illustrated's Jeremy Woo

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