Toronto Raptors: Stock Take, plus Terence Davis turns it around

Fred VanVleet

Seriously?

The Toronto Raptors just can’t seem to catch a break. Fred VanVleet was superb in the win over the Brooklyn Nets, especially in the second half. After a 3-of-8 start from the field, along with five assists, VanVleet and the Raptors were struggling to get things going. Spencer Dinwiddie and the Nets, who welcomed back Caris LeVert into the fold, were rolling and led by as much as 16 points.

As the popular cliche goes, sports are often a game of two halves. This game of basketball was no different. VanVleet was superb in the second half, shooting 8-of-11 from the field and 4-of-7 from three, putting up 22 points and another six assists, bringing his total to 29 points and 11 assists on 11-of-19 shooting from the field.

The backcourt duo of Lowry and VanVleet, for the first time in what seemed like forever, both had great games on the same night. The two connect and can play off each other, but this feels like the first time they could do it in sync. Things were looking up.

Until they didn’t.

Fred VanVleet was the next victim in the Toronto Raptors long line of injuries, a list that seems to be never-ending. The news came in that VanVleet would be ruled out of Tuesday’s home game against the Portland Trail Blazers, a game where the Raptors really could have used his services.

As of writing, VanVleet’s return date is unknown, but hamstring injuries are usually something you don’t shake off in a few days. His loss, like every other, will really hurt the Raptors.

VERDICT: STOCK DOWN