Stock up, Stock down as Raptors difficult opening stretch ends

MIAMI, FLORIDA - OCTOBER 22: Pascal Siakam #43 of the Toronto Raptors reacts after a missed basket against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at FTX Arena on October 22, 2022 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

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MIAMI, FLORIDA – OCTOBER 22: Fred VanVleet #23 of the Toronto Raptors drives against Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) /

Stock down: Fred VanVleet

The Raptors still need VanVleet to be at his best if they have any hope of being a team that opponents will fear in the postseason. However, the last few games have not been very kind to No. 23, as the Raptors were pitiful offensively with him and tremendous without him.

VanVleet was held to just one point as the Raptors were bludgeoned at home without Joel Embiid active for the 76ers. After sitting out the Atlanta win, Fred had to watch his team score 139 points and win by 30. The offense looked distinctly different without No. 23 on the floor.

Fred VanVleet has had some tough moments for the Toronto Raptors.

VanVleet might make the Raptors a better shooting team that can score efficiently, but the slow pace can often be problematic. Without him in the lineup, the offense was able to be more free-flowing and multifaceted in how they attacked. Toronto might need to implement more pace-pushing moments when VanVleet is on the floor.

VanVleet is essential; let’s not get things twisted. He’s an elite defender, the team’s preferred go-to option in the clutch, and an All-Star point guard. However, these last few games have illustrated areas in which he and the team need to be better in the coming weeks.

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