“Fred VanVleet Exercises Free Agency: Impact on Raptors’ Future Success”

Toronto Raptors’ Fred VanVleet Declines Player Option, Becomes Unrestricted Free Agent

The Toronto Raptors’ All-Star guard Fred VanVleet has declined his player option for next season and will become an unrestricted free agent, according to ESPN. VanVleet’s option was worth $22.8 million, but he hasn’t ruled out negotiating a new deal with the Raptors and returning to Toronto.

VanVleet’s Performance and Career Achievements

VanVleet, who has spent his entire career in Toronto, averaged 19.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and a career-high 7.2 assists this season. He also won an NBA title with the Raptors in 2019. He is one of the best and most proven players on the market, and he is young enough to fit with growing teams that have cap space but experienced enough to fit in with veteran-laden teams that might have to pull off a sign-and-trade deal to acquire him.

VanVleet’s Future Success

VanVleet should have multiple suitors, and it would be a surprise if his starting salary is not significantly above the $22.8 million he just declined. He holds career averages of 14.6 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists and has averaged 36.8 minutes over the last four seasons. The Athletic’s John Hollinger recently ranked VanVleet as the No. 3 free agent available this offseason based on the BORD$ method for projecting contract value.

Chances of Retaining VanVleet by Raptors

The Raptors have no proven point guard behind VanVleet, and while Toronto has capable ballhandlers, a smaller player who can navigate screens defensively and work into tight spaces is essential. VanVleet has also been a wonderful leader for his entire term with the team. The Raptors also indicated their interest in keeping VanVleet by not trading him at the deadline, even if the offers weren’t to their liking. But by not trading him at the deadline, the Raptors willingly gave up a chunk of their leverage. Despite the competition, the Raptors are expected to be fairly aggressive in trying to retain him.

Advice

The Raptors should do their best to retain VanVleet, who has been an essential part of their lineup and a key contributor to their success over the years. VanVleet is entering the prime of his career and is still showing potential for growth. Retaining him would be crucial for the Raptors to continue their success in the league.

At the same time, VanVleet should weigh his options carefully and choose a team that best suits his career goals. His experience and skills make him a valuable asset for any team, and he could help bring a team to championship success if he chooses to make a move.

Overall, VanVleet’s future is filled with many possibilities, but no matter where he goes, he will always be remembered as one of the key players who helped bring an NBA championship to Toronto.