3 underrated Raptors who could make a massive difference next season

1. Dennis Schroder

Schroder’s signing was mocked by some, as they viewed him as an inferior player when compared to Fred VanVleet. Eschewing the direct comparison will help one see Schroder in a more favorable light. His skills are what Raptors fans have been begging to see for so long.

Schroder, a former Sixth Man of the Year contender who has averaged double digits in points per game in every season except for his rookie campaign, is an ideal backup point guard. A feisty leader, creative ball-handler, and willing scorer, Schroder pairs his offensive game with a nonstop motor that makes him a solid defensive presence.

The Toronto Raptors could fall in love with Dennis Schroder.

Schroder has been flexing his muscles with the Germany national team, leading them to pre-FIBA World Cup victories against Sweden and Canada despite playing with an Achilles injury. The Schroder dominating these games isn’t even the type of player Toronto will see at full strength.

The Raptors will crash and burn if they expect Schroder to be a straight-up replacement for VanVleet. However, if they give him the role of bench leader and empower him as such, Schroder could be exactly the type of presence this team needs.