3 Raptors players who could contend for NBA Honors in 2022

1. Fred VanVleet: All-NBA Third Team

We’re way past arguing for VanVleet’s inclusion in the All-Star game. If you don’t believe he is worthy of inclusion at this point, you’re disqualified from having an opinion about All-Star voting. VanVleet might have higher ambitions than just an appearance in Cleveland, as he could sneak onto the All-NBA Third Team.

VanVleet is averaging 22.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.7 assists per game, all while playing without a reliable backup point guard to give him a breather and assuming the role of primary late-game scorer. The only point guards with a better points per game average are Steph Curry, Trae Young, Damian Lillard, and James Harden.

Toronto Raptors: Fred VanVleet is worthy of All-NBA consideration.

VanVleet has several hurdles to overcome before he gets All-NBA buzz, especially if the Raptors start to get out of the play-in range. If a player’s value is truly being considered few players are more valuable to their teams than VanVleet.

VanVleet is going to continue getting a green light as long as Toronto continues to struggle off of the bench. His two-way performance has made up for a ton of warts, and his current level of play is too elite for the selectors to ignore.