3 Raptors who have been outperforming their contracts in 2021-22

1. Fred VanVleet ($19.6 million)

Siakam might be the highest-paid player, Barnes is a walking highlight-reel, and Anunoby has improved a ton, but VanVleet is the best player on this team. When he is off the court, there are times where it looks like the Raptors just completely forget how to play organized basketball.

VanVleet is averaging a career-best 19.7 points and 5.1 rebounds per game. His field goal percentage is much improved at 43%, and still setting up his teammates with timely passes. Oh, and his defense has been amazing. Considering the magic that VanVleet conjures up regularly, his performance this year should’ve surprised exactly zero Raptors fans.

Fred VanVleet is helping carry the Toronto Raptors.

VanVleet is leading the NBA in minutes per game at over 38 per contest. With the lack of a backup point guard to aid him following the departure of Goran Dragic, VanVleet is having to do it all himself. While this may not be super sustainable, it has still proven to be very effective.

VanVleet has been proving doubters wrong his whole career, as his rise from G League afterthought to championship contributor and highest-paid undrafted player ever prove. While there were signs last year, this is the closest we’ve ever seen to VanVleet come to emerging as an undisputed All-Star in this league.