Toronto Raptors: Five candidates to steal Fred VanVleet this free agency

Indiana Pacers

The surprise team of last season, the Indiana Pacers are the best team with cap-space available, other than the Philadelphia 76ers. However, despite finishing as a top-five Eastern Conference team last season, the Indiana Pacers enter free-agency without a point guard as good as Fred VanVleet.

Currently, the Indiana Pacers start Darren Collison at the lead guard position, with familiar face, Corey Joseph, serving as the primary backup. FVV serves as an upgrade to both players and would like become the team’s starting point guard alongside all-star Victor Oladipo. Thirty years-old with only one year remaining on his contract, Darren Collison could shift to a backup position. Corey Joseph is an easy player to move.

VanVleet serves as an interest partner next to Oladipo. Both players are explosive off the dribble, shoot well enough to earn a hard close-out, and are willing passers. Opposing backcourts would find no place to hide, as both players play with relentless energy at all times.

Defensively the two players would also cause havoc. Oladipo is an elite two-way player, while VanVleet is one of the most annoying defenders in the game today. (In a good way)

Thaddeus Young opting-in and Bojan Bogdanavic’s deal being guaranteed, may have priced the Pacers into the FVV market. Prior to both decision, their was speculation the Pacers could pursue Orlando free-agent Aaron Gordon. As their cap tightens, that possibility appears less likely, leaving the possibility of a Fred VanVleet offer.