Four seasons removed from their NBA Finals win, the Toronto Raptors have already made sweeping changes this offseason, starting with a coaching swap. Rumors of roster tweaks are also filling the airwaves, with Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam’s names leading the way.
But VanVleet’s scenario is more urgent. The Raptors’ starting point guard has a player option for $22.8 million for next season, which he appears likely to decline after becoming a first-time All-Star in 2022.
Developing from an undrafted signee into a true star, VanVleet has only ever played for the Raptors in his seven NBA seasons, and there’s a possibility he could opt to sign an extension with the only team he’s ever known.
Then again, the 29-year-old point guard could find a robust market this summer as one of the best players available in free agency. According to NBA insider Marc Stein’s sources, VanVleet “appears more likely than not to relocate” later this summer.
- Fred VanVleet stats last season: 19.3 PPG, 7.2 APG, 4.1 RPG, 39% FG, 34% 3PT
Any team searching for an improvement at the starting point guard position will likely consider making VanVleet an offer in free agency this summer. At 6-foot-1, he’s a bit undersized, but FVV has developed into a volume shooter from distance who can also make a difference as a distributor.
Perhaps there’s even a scenario that sees VanVleet reconnect with Nick Nurse, who recently became the head coach of the Philadelphia 76ers, as James Harden is also expected to be a hot commodity in free agency.