Report: Raptors' VanVleet declines $22.8M option
Toronto Raptors guard Fred VanVleet will enter free agency this summer after declining his $22.8-million player option for next season, sources told ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
VanVleet reportedly hasn't ruled out a return to Toronto but will be among the most sought-after guards on the market.
Several contenders targeting VanVleet would be open to a sign-and-trade with the Raptors, Wojnarowski adds.
Backcourt mate Gary Trent Jr. could soon join VanVleet in free agency. The Duke product has until Thursday to make a decision on his $18.6-million option for 2023-24.
The undrafted VanVleet has been one of the league's biggest success stories since breaking into the Association in 2016.
VanVleet played a significant role off the bench during his first three campaigns. He picked up a Finals MVP vote in 2019 for his clutch shot-making against the Golden State Warriors.
The following year, VanVleet stepped into a starting role and earned himself a new four-year, $85-million contract, which at the time was the largest deal given to an undrafted player.
VanVleet averaged a career-high 20.3 points, 6.7 assists, 4.4 boards, and 1.7 steals during the 2020-21 season, earning his first All-Star appearance in the process.
The 29-year-old led the NBA in deflections per game (3.8) and finished third in steals (1.8) last season.