Who is Dalano Banton: Toronto Raptors' 2nd-round pick breaks out with 27 points on just 2nd NBA start

The Toronto Raptors snatched their eighth win thanks to the heroics of Dalano Banton, who erupted for 27 points against the Detroit Pistons. In his second start, Banton showed why he was a draft-day steal for his hometown team.

Dalano Banton was selected with the 46th overall pick by the Raptors in 2021. Interestingly, Banton didn't have a hard time moving away from home when he was drafted. The swingman grew up in the Rexdale neighborhood of Toronto. He also began his love for the game in the same area.

Growing up, Banton attended basketball camps hosted by the former All-Star for the Raptors, DeMar DeRozan. When he was drafted, the 6-foot-7 forward became the first Canadian to get drafted by the Raptors. His dream came full circle as he played his heart out in front of his hometown crowd each time he stepped on the court.

Banton committed to Western Kentucky in college. His stint with the college team didn't last long as he transferred to Nebraska after a year. In December 2020, the all-round forward recorded the second triple-double in Nebraska men’s basketball history with 13 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists.

After getting drafted, he was interviewed by Complex last year and expressed how his experience growing up helped shape who he is. In the interview, he said:

"Coming where we’re from, you just have to have a positive mindset. If you don’t dream bigger and live bigger and think you’re going to do more for yourself, then you really won’t and you’ll be stuck."

Now in his sophomore season, Dalano Banton has shown signs of improvement on the court. Through 14 games, he's averaging 6.5 points, 1.4 rebounds, and 1.1 assists. Banton is also shooting over 45.8% from the field and 35.5% from three.

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Pascal Siakam's absence has given Dalano Banton an opportunity to shine for the Raptors

Houston Rockets v Toronto Raptors

Toronto Raptors All-Star Pascal Siakam has missed his sixth straight game of the season due to a shoulder injury. This has given coach Nick Nurse a chance to let other players take on Siakam's on-court responsibilities. One of the players that has seized the opportunity is Dalano Banton.

Over the past five games, Banton is averaging 11.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, while shooting 43.5% from the field and 30% from three. Banton is playing more minutes as well. From his usual 10 minutes per game, he's had an increase in his time on the court with at least 15 per game over the past six games.

This won't last, however, as Siakam will eventually make a return. Until then, Danalo Banton's exposure could help him become a more complete player.