The Toronto Raptors recently re-signed guard Fred VanVleet to an $85 million contract for 4 years. Ever since the phenomenal 2019 playoff run, VanVleet has been an instrumental part of the Raptors squad.

For his performance, VanVleet finally got the hefty contract that he deserved, but prior to this deal being finalized, there were many rumors surrounding his future. In a recent interview, Fred revealed what his backcourt partner Kyle Lowry advised him to do.

“Don’t fumble the bag.”

VanVleet continued and spoke highly of the 6-time All-Star Kyle Lowry.

“I’ve got a lot of friends that I grew up with that I consider brothers, and Kyle fits right into that group. Over these last 4 years, his contributions to my career, it’s hard to put into words what it’s meant… Kyle has been a huge, huge part of my career.”

VanVleet averaged a solid 17.6 points per game in the 2019-20 NBA season that led to him getting recognized as the real deal. However, after a terrific championship run, the Raptors couldn’t get past the second round this postseason.

Moreover, they lost two solid big men in Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol in 2020 free agency. Despite an average offseason, many believe Toronto is still one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference.

Can the Toronto Raptors win it all in the 2020-21 NBA season?

During their sole championship run, the Raptors were led by Kawhi Leonard. However, when he left, most believed that the championship window had closed for the franchise. But despite losing Leonard, the team performed spectacularly in the regular season.

Pascal Siakam, Kyle Lowry, and Fred VanVleet shared the offensive load during the regular season. Even in the Playoffs, they pushed the Celtics to a thrilling 7-game series. If it weren’t for an abysmal playoff run by Siakam, Toronto could have at least made it to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Heading to the 2020-21 NBA season, they would expect brilliant performances from their core if they want to widen up their championship window.

All things considered, they need to bring their top game to make it all the way to the NBA Finals. Can Fred VanVleet and Co. achieve that? Let us know your views in the comments section.

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