10 biggest player option decisions of the 2023 NBA offseason

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4. Fred VanVleet

Fred VanVleet would arguably be the best point guard to hit the open market if he were to opt out of his $22.8 million player option for next year. VanVleet has been a key cog for the Raptors franchise ever since he helped them win an NBA championship in 2019. Turning 30 in November, this could be VanVleet’s last chance to strike on a long-term deal while the iron is still hot.

Although he is an undersized guard, Fred VanVleet has proven capable of holding his own on the defensive end. VanVleet has averaged no less than 1.7 steals per game in each of his past four seasons. He also ranked in the 82nd percentile amongst guards who have played at least 250 minutes this season in defensive plus/minus.

In addition to being a top-tier defensive guard, Fred VanVleet has also become of the best high-volume 3-point shooters in the league. Attempting nearly nine threes per game, VanVleet averaged three made 3s per game. His ability to get hot from beyond the arc in a hurry is something defenses must be aware of any time he steps onto the court.

Along with his defensive prowess and shooting ability, Fred VanVleet has also developed into quite a facilitator. Since Kyle Lowry left the Raptors to join the Heat before last season, FVV has had to take on more of a playmaking role. He has set new career-highs in assists per game in consecutive seasons, averaging 7.2 assists per game this past season.

A point guard with NBA Playoff/championship experience who can shoot the ball, hold his own on defense, and create plays for others is certainly going to be a hot commodity in free agency. Fred VanVleet will be a name to watch this offseason since he has already notified the Raptors he will be declining his player option to test free agency.

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