Toronto Raptors: 3 players under the most pressure in 2021-22

2. PG Fred VanVleet

We know VanVleet is one of the most unheralded guards in the game, as the number of players who can be counted on for 19 points and six assists per game while providing elite defense is very small. However, this will be his first extended time frame as the main man without Lowry.

Even with No. 7 struggling with injuries last year, he was still around the team. It’s up to VanVleet, in the second year of a four-year contract, to show the Raptors and fans that he can provide the same blend of statistical greatness and off-court leadership that Lowry did.

Fred VanVleet must fill Kyle Lowry’s shoes with the Toronto Raptors.

While Malachi Flynn is in town, and Scottie Barnes will be trusted to handle the ball plenty, the Raptors gave VanVleet a contract that approaches nine figures because they believe in their heart of hearts that he is the man best equipped to succeed Lowry as the point guard for the future.

He’s not a perfect player, as his efficiency last year took a concerning nosedive below the Mendoza Line-esque percentage of 40%. If he gets off to a slow start, which could lead to a rocky beginning to the campaign for Toronto, some reactionary fans might start pining for Lowry to return.