When we think about successful undrafted NBA players, Fred Vanvleet is one of the best, if not the best. He is a true anomaly and the embodiment of determination that made him the NBA’s most resolute player.
After going undrafted in 2016, he went on to not only seize a spot in the Toronto Raptors roster but also become an integral part of their championship-winning season in 2019. His dedication and resilience were further proven when he shattered records with a sensational 54-point game against Orlando in 2021, becoming not only the Raptors’ single-game points leader but an unprecedented single-game record holder for any undrafted player in NBA history
His efficiency has been somewhat of an issue recently, but overall he’s still averaging 19.3 PPG, 4.3 RPG, and 6.4 APG for the Toronto Raptors (+10000 to win NBA Championship). He certainly isn’t having his best season yet, but VanVleet is determined to keep pushing forward and come out even stronger from this trying stretch in his career.
Seeking a Contract Similar to Herro’s
However, the Raptors and Fred VanVleet seem to be headed for a crossroads. With VanVleet having the option of declining his player option for next season, it appears that he may be looking for more money as indicated by Ric Bucher’s recent report.
The guard is reportedly seeking a deal similar to Tyler Herro with the Miami Heat (28-23). As of now, it looks like potential trade talks are on the table and it would not be surprising if they happen before this year’s deadline in March.
Tyler Herro and the Miami Heat have agreed on a 4-year contract extension worth $130 million two weeks before the 2022-23 season commences. The deal is said to include $120 million in guaranteed salary and another $10 million in incentives. This move comes after Herro’s outstanding performance last season, winning the 6th man of the year award as well as several other accolades.
The 13th pick from the 2019 Draft does not disappoint this season, averaging 20.2 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists on 43.8% shooting (38 games played). The Heat is certainly not one of the favorites to win the 2023 championship (with 4000 odds per FanDuel Sportsbook) but they are still a team to watch out for.
If Fred Vanvleet wants to secure a long-term deal like Tyler Herro’s, he will have to prove his worth and show that he can be a reliable contributor on both ends of the court. Whether it’s with Toronto or another team, this season will determine VanVleet’s fate and his potential for a $130M contract.
Fred VanVleet to the LA Clippers?
With John Wall being sidelined again, the Los Angeles Clippers are surely looking for a steady starting point guard and Fred VanVleet certainly fits the bill with his experience as a starter on NBA Playoffs teams.
For the Clippers, he could be an ideal third offensive option in Kawhi Leonard’s and Paul George’s offense, taking some of the pressure off those two-star players. Building chemistry between the three players should not be too difficult for VanVleet due to his 1-year experience with Kawhi.
The Clippers are also interested in acquiring the starting Heat point guard, Kyle Lowry. It looks like the organization is willing to acquire assets that know how to support the Klaw -PG13 duo, in an attempt to make a deep run into the playoffs. Even with multiple injuries, the Clippers are still contenders to win the championship (+1300 odds), and this may be their best chance to go all out.
We will have to wait and see which team Fred VanVleet chooses and how he performs this season. But one thing’s for sure: if he resolves his efficiency issues and levels up his game, he’ll surely be rewarded with a big contract regardless of the team.