The Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic have emerged as potential free-agent suitors for Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet, according to The Athletic‘s Shams Charania.
VanVleet has a player option for $22.8 million next season, but could enter free agency should he choose to decline it.
The 28-year-old, who earned an All-Star selection last season, has had a dip in performance so far this season. Through 36 games, he’s averaging 18.2 points and 6.3 assists, but shooting 37.6 per cent from the field and 32.8 per cent from three-point range.
“Some nights the ball finds you and some nights it doesn’t. That’s where I’m struggling this year, the out-of-rhythm games,” VanVleet told JJ Redick on The Old Man and The Three podcast on Jan. 6, in relation to how his role has changed this season.
“I might get a couple catch and shoots, a couple contested shots, off the dribble… and then I get three wide-open ones at the end of the game when we need them.”
Days later, VanVleet elaborated on his contract situation, after reports surfaced he turned down a max-extension offer worth $114 million with the Raptors before the season.
“There was never a formal offer made. It was a mutual decision made by both sides that the smart thing to do would be to wait it out,” VanVleet said. “There was no rush given that I could still sign the extension all the way through the end of the season.”
Charania, who calls Toronto the most fascinating team to watch before the Feb. 9 trade deadline, also reports the Raptors have “significant interest” in San Antonio Spurs centre Jakob Poeltl (a former Raptors draft pick traded in the Kawhi Leonard deal) and are among the teams interested in Detroit Pistons sharpshooter Bojan Bogdanovic.
Amid the Raptors’ subpar season, Charania writes that teams across the NBA are monitoring the availability of Pascal Siakam, O.G. Anunoby, Gary Trent Jr. and VanVleet, should Toronto decide to rebuild.
“Without a doubt, the Raptors have the full attention of everyone across the NBA,” Charania says.
Raptors Takeaways: VanVleet, Barnes shine in OT win over Knicks
By: Sportsnet Staff
Title: Report: Suns, Magic possible free-agent suitors for Raptors’ VanVleet
Sourced From: www.sportsnet.ca/nba/article/report-suns-magic-possible-free-agent-suitors-for-raptors-vanvleet/
Published Date: 01-17-2023
Frequently Asked Questions
What did the Toronto Raptors do when Kawhi Leonard moved out of town?
The Toronto Raptors had a great year. The Raptors won 53 consecutive games during the 2020 season. All-Star point-guard Kyle Lowry, who averaged 19.7 and 7.5 points per game, was key to the team’s success. Lowry was joined by fellow All-Star forward Pascal Siakam, who averaged 22.9 points and 8.3 rebounds per game. Role players like Norman Powell and Fred VanVleet also made strong contributions to the Raptors' success. They were able to overcome injuries to Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol thanks to their depth and talent.
The team was led coach Nick Nurse and All NBA Second Teamer Pascal Siakam. . Siakam was a star, scoring nearly 20+ points per games. Coach Nurse made bold strategic moves that paid off. Kyle Lowry was chosen to the 2020 NBA All-Star roster, his sixth consecutive selection.
The playoffs began later than usual this year, in August, at the "Bubble" in Bay Lake, Florida, near Orlando. The Raptors were defeated by the Brooklyn Nets, winning 4-0. They went down 0-2 against the Boston Celtics in the next round, but OG Anunoby hit a buzzer-beater to win Toronto the third game. The series eventually went to seven games, with Boston prevailing.
How was the Toronto Raptors' inaugural year of existence?
The first season of the NBA for Toronto Raptors was difficult. Brendan Malone, who was then hired by Isiah as GM, became the head coach for the Raptors' 1995 franchise. They soon acquired many talented players through the draft and through trades. They defeated the mighty Chicago Bulls once that season, but overall they finished with a 21-61 win-loss record.
Toronto drafted Marcus Camby in 1996. He was named Rookie of Year and was part of the starting lineup with Alvin Williams as point guard. Damon Stoudamire left Toronto in 1997. More roster changes were made as Toronto sought to create a foundation for future success.
Despite all these changes, the team has struggles in its first few seasons of the NBA. Toronto made its first playoff appearance in 2000 after years of rebuilding and transition. However, it lost the series to New York Knicks.
Did Vancouver have an NBA team?
Vancouver does not have a NBA team. The Vancouver Grizzlies played in Vancouver from 1995-2001. The team relocated to Memphis Tennessee in 2001. Now, basketball enthusiasts in Vancouver support the Toronto Raptors as they are the closest NBA team to the area. Additionally, there are other professional basketball clubs that play in the Greater Vancouver Area. These include the BC Tigers from the Canadian Elite Basketball League as well as the Vancouver Volcanoes from the International Basketball League. A number of amateur and semiprofessional teams participate in various local leagues.
Vancouver has many recreational opportunities for basketball fans. Vancouver Grizzlies Alumni Association aims for former players to get together and promote basketball in British Columbia. The association hosts events such as viewing parties for Raptors games and clinics to help young players develop their game.
The city's enthusiasm for basketball has not diminished following the departure from the Grizzlies. This community continues to support the sport through many different ways. Vancouverites still love basketball, and they continue to support former players and other organizations who work to promote the sport within the city.
What are the five most successful Raptors per-game scorers throughout Raptors' history?
Kawhi Leonard leads the team in scoring with 26.6 points per games. Vince Carter has 23.4 points per game and Mike James has 20.3, Chris Bosh has 20.2, Chris Bosh 20.3, and DeMar DeRozan has 19.7 points per round.
Statistics
- In November of the 1996–97 season, Bitove sold his ownership interest in the team to Slaight for $65 million after Slaight had activated a shotgun clause in their partnership agreement,[32][33] giving Slaight 79 percent control of the team, [34] (en.wikipedia.org)
- This improved during the 2006–07 regular season to an average of 18,258 fans (13th in the league), 92.2 percent capacity at the Air Canada Centre. (en.wikipedia.org)
- After Thomas attempted to execute a letter of intent with Slaight to purchase the team failed, he resigned from his position in November and sold his 9 percent stake in the team to Slaight. (en.wikipedia.org)
- As predicted by analysts, the team easily secured a berth in the 2001 NBA playoffs with a franchise-high 47 wins. (en.wikipedia.org)
- By 2018, estimated the Raptors were worth $1.4 billion, 12th in the NBA. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
thestar.com
en.wiktionary.org
vividseats.com
basketball-reference.com
How To
Tips on Where to Eat Before the Toronto Raptors Game at Scotiabank Arena
It is best to avoid eating too much before a game. Plenty of food will be available for sale inside if you're hungry after arriving at the arena.
A variety of concessions can be found along the concourse, as well as the stands. Some places specialize in beer, while others serve hot dogs, pizza, burgers, and more.
Concession stands that sell nachos are a popular choice. These cheesey snacks include toppings like jalapenos. Cheese sauce. Bacon bits.
Another option is to get tickets for a pregame party. These parties can be hosted at many restaurants so guests can enjoy food or drinks before heading to the arena.
It's a great place to try local cuisine. You can choose from pulled pork sandwiches, chicken wings, or ribs.
You will find many fast food outlets nearby, including Subway and Tim Hortons.
Walking distance from many restaurants offers healthy eating options. Freshii is one of the most popular places. This chain sells fresh salads as well as wraps made with organic products.
Other options include juice shops and sushi bars.
If you are looking for something more than just a coffee shop or ice cream parlour, there are plenty of options right around the corner.
No matter your tastebuds, there are plenty to choose from before and after the Toronto Raptors match. You should allow enough time for security screenings and finding your seat.
Have fun cheering for your home team! And thanks for reading! Go Raptors! Enjoy the game!
