Toronto Raptors: 5 keys to series vs. Cavaliers
By Chris Conner
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.
WELCOME BACK, @FredVanVleet! #BetOnYourSelf https://t.co/V1jMt4kgTs
— Toronto Raptors (@Raptors) April 27, 2018
The @Raptors bench will be boosted by the return of Fred VanVleet. Toronto was +352 with VanVleet on the floor this season, 2nd-best for any player in games they came off the bench behind only Eric Gordon (+366 in 39 games off bench). VanVleet has played 2:49 this series. pic.twitter.com/xdpJswO9d3
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) April 27, 2018
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.