Toronto Raptors: Stock Take, plus Norman Powell lights it up

Fred VanVleet

FR3D VANVL33T is money.

Sorry about that, but Fred VanVleet once again proved his value with the most clutch of clutch performances against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday night. After a fairly slow first half, VanVleet tore apart the Sixers in the second half.

VanVleet had 15 of his 22 points coming in the second half, and all of them coming on triples, shooting 5-of-6 from deep as he downed the Sixers in the late stages of the game. His ability to step up on the big moments, and help carry the scoring while Pascal Siakam struggles to get back to his pre-injury rhythm is incredible.

It’s hard to accept that four seasons ago, Fred VanVleet was an undrafted rookie playing garbage time minutes for the Raptors when not with the Raptors 905. Though it isn’t mentioned much, his story intertwines with Siakam’s perfectly. They rose to the spotlight together. Now they’re both here.

It wasn’t just against the Sixers where FVV balled out. His entire week was filled with big moments, averaging 23.7 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.7 steals per game, shooting 52-percent from the field and 74-percent(!!) from three on 6.4 attempts per game.

Those are All-Star numbers, and Fred VanVleet is All-Star worthy.

One more time; FR3D VANVL33T.

VERDICT: STOCK UP