3 offseason tasks the Raptors should already be working on

1. Signing Fred VanVleet or Gary Trent Jr.

The Raptors are sitting on a knife edge right now, as they are perilously close to potentially losing their two best backcourt names in the offseason. With multiple big contracts on the way and Poeltl also on the priority list, keeping both of these players since unlikely.

VanVleet has the experience, an All-Star nod, and a history of being an excellent primary facilitator in his corner. The valuable Trent, however, is a younger option that will likely be cheaper while provided a similar level of perimeter shot creation. Picking one of them will be a very difficult choice.

Will the Toronto Raptors sign Fred VanVleet or Gary Trent Jr?

Toronto’s decision to pursue either Trent or VanVleet may hinge on Scottie Barnes. If Barnes is ready for a more permanent ball-handling role, VanVleet could be sent away in favor of Trent. If VanVleet is the point guard for the future, Trent may not be retained.

The Raptors will be a much worse offensive team (yes, it can be possible) if both of these players end up leaving. Both can be polarizing, but they both bring something positive to the table when they are operating at their absolute peaks in Nick Nurse’s offense.