3 sign-and-trade targets Raptors must pursue in Fred VanVleet talks

The Toronto Raptors have never been closer to a Fred VanVleet departure than they are right now. While he chose to stay with the Raptors during his first free-agent run, he is looking elsewhere as he tries to find that one last payday just one year removed from being an All-Star.

VanVleet has declined his player option for next season, and reports hinting that he is “willing to negotiate” with the Raptors make it seem like he needs to be convinced of a return and that he is keeping his options for a departure wide open. This could lead to a sign-and-trade from Toronto.

The Raptors have some experience in this department, as they were able to flip Kyle Lowry to the Miami Heat while getting back Precious Achiuwa in return. Achiuwa can be maddening at times, but the fact that Masai Ujiri landed a player who could be a franchise cornerstone for Lowry was a nice move.

While the Raptors may not get identical compensation for VanVleet, nor are there a ton of ready-made players who can step right up and replace him at point guard, but Toronto should still be heralded if they land one of these three intriguing players instead of losing VanVleet for nothing.

3 Toronto Raptors sign-and-trade targets amid Fred VanVleet noise

3. Terance Mann, Los Angeles Clippers

Mann has already earned the Scottie Barnes workout co-sign, as the Florida State alum seems to have some affinity for his fellow former Seminole. Mann was mentioned in the Raptors’ talks with the Clippers around the trade deadline, but they refused to part ways with him.

Mann averaged 9.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game in the last two seasons, all while shooting 37% from 3-point range. Imagine those numbers with a brand new player development culture getting its hands on him as he runs the bench.

Can the Toronto Raptors get Terance Mann?

What makes Mann an ideal player for the Raptors is the fact that he hasn’t scratched the surface of his talent. Mann was often made to be a less important offensive piece due to LA’s star power, and new head coach Darko Rajakovic could be one who unlocks him in a new environment.

Mann may not be a traditional point guard, but his ability to fill multiple roles while proving some impressive offensive creativity could help the Raptors fill the offensive holes that a VanVleet departure would cause. They’d also steal away LA’s best young trade asset.