Fred VanVleet Re-Signs with the Raptors

You know the story by now. As an undrafted free agent signed by the perennial fifty-win Toronto Raptors, Fred VanVleet sat on the bench and played minimal minutes in his 1st season. After a productive 2nd season, in which he cemented himself as a key cog in the wheel, he signed a 2 year contract extension worth a total of $18M. He continued to progress and got better. His 3rd year was a career year – he played more minutes, scored more points and was an impact player on an NBA Championship team. He even played so well in the NBA Finals that Hubie Brown gives him an NBA Finals MVP vote.

When the Raptors started the defense of their hard-earned championship, Fred came out on opening night and dropped 34 pts, 5 reb & 7 ast with 5 threes and 2 steals. He went on to have another career year, averaging 17.6 ppg, 3.8 rpg, 6.6 apg while tying for 3rd in the NBA with 1.9 steals per game. While the playoff run didn’t work out as planned for the Raptors, he still doubled his playoff scoring, rebounding and assist numbers from the previous year. All that hard work has now paid off for Fred VanVleet as the Raptors have re-signed him to the tune of $85M over 4 years.

VanVleet's contract includes a player option in the fourth season, sources said. His agency, @ParLay_SE, has done $145M in contracts over last two days. https://t.co/8f7R6ota5M
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) November 21, 2020

Many around the NBA know about VanVleet's beginnings in the league and how hard he has worked to get to this point, and they took to social media to congratulate FVV on his new deal.

On a personal level, I've ever been happier for a player that I've covered to get paid. Fred has put in the WORK and he's done it (and treated people) the right way. Hope he's enjoying this moment - he earned it! Thrilled for him and his family. A remarkable story.
— Josh Lewenberg (@JLew1050) November 21, 2020

For those who feel “ All I need is a chance, an opportunity”- look no further then @FredVanVleet Undrafted. I repeat- Undrafted. He signs with the @Raptors He busts his tail, smart, savvy, great guy and BOOM...a star- an NBA ring and now a generational wealthy player. Congrats
— chuck swirsky (@ctsbulls) November 21, 2020

I doubted him... this is the stuff of legend. Get better, believe in yourself, never lose your confidence. @FredVanVleet https://t.co/2dodNRabUQ
— Doug Gottlieb (@GottliebShow) November 21, 2020

Photo Credit: Jevone Moore/Icon Sportswire