Raptors: 5 best individual games so far in the 2020-21 season

5 of 5

ORLANDO, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 02: Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors (Photo by Douglas P. DeFelice/Getty Images) /

No. 1: Fred VanVleet vs Orlando Magic (Feb 2nd, 2021)

Surprise, surprise.

Since New Years Day in 2018, DeMar DeRozan had been the Raptors single-game points leader with 52, in what was a performance for the ages. Toronto fans knew that it would take a special moment to ever surpass that record, and that’s exactly what they got from Fred VanVleet against the Orlando Magic.

In 37 minutes, VanVleet secured the franchise record for most points in a game with 54, at an incredible 17-23 clip. VanVleet shot a ludicrous 11-14 from 3, and was a perfect 9-9 at the free-throw line as well.

Raptors star Fred VanVleet couldn’t miss against the Magic

It would be one thing to take 40 shots and break the record, but VanVleet did it in the most efficient way possible, leading to one of the best Raptors individual performances of all-time. Beyond the scope of franchise records, the Wichita State guard set the record for most points ever by an undrafted player, passing the great Moses Malone.

VanVleet’s mantra is bet on yourself, and that’s exactly what he’s done. Even when no one believed except for him, he continued to improve and landed in the perfect place to develop his talent in Toronto, and thus far, the relationship between the Raptors and Fred has been better than anyone could have expected.

If any Raptors fans were worried that Fred VanVleet’s hunger would decrease after getting paid, it’s safe to say that they have changed their tune. VanVleet has arguably been the most valuable player for Toronto this season, and so it’s only fitting that he claims the top spot on the list.