3. A healthy Fred VanVleet
Let’s just say it: The Raptors can’t beat Cleveland without Fred VanVleet. That may sound extreme but there’s no denying how impactful VanVleet’s presence is.
The latest display was in Toronto’s closeout game last week against Washington.
VanVleet’s ability to provide energy and stability on both sides of the floor simply isn’t replaceable for the Raptors. He brings a veteran’s demeanor for a player so young in NBA experience. That could loom large for a Raptors team trying to take down the Cavaliers, who are as battle-tested as any NBA team we’ve seen in recent memory.