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The Toronto Raptors were viewed as one of the top potential sellers ahead of Thursday's NBA trade deadline. One of the names that was considered to be on the move was veteran guard Fred VanVleet.
Throughout the speculation leading up to the afternoon stopping point, the LA Clippers were viewed as one of the top suitors for VanVleet. Los Angeles came into the season picked by many to be a force in the Western Conference. After a roller coaster of a first half to the season, the Clippers (31-27) were looking to make changes.
The Toronto Raptors (26-30) found themselves in a similar position. After a successful 2021-22 season, Toronto was viewed as a team that could take a big step forward this season. That hasn't been the case, as the Raptors have struggled.
Toronto was viewed as a team looking to move a number of talented pieces. One team that was calling was the LA Clippers. According to NBA analyst Farbod Esnaashari, the Raptors wanted Terance Mann and a first-round pick in exchange for VanVleet. That resulted in the Clippers deciding to go in another direction.
Toronto Raptors keep core together at NBA trade deadline
The Toronto Raptors have had one of the most impressive rosters of intriguing young talent in the NBA. But with the Raptors struggling throughout the season, rival teams were lining up at the potential to inquire about players who could be available.
Players such as OG Anunoby, Fred VanVleet and Pascal Siakam had often been mentioned as names who could be on the move. Instead, the Toronto Raptors did just the opposite. They agreed to a trade with the San Antonio Spurs, bringing versatile big man Jakob Poetl to the Raptors.
Fred VanVleet was viewed as a popular name on the market. Rival organizations were lining up to inquire about the talented combo guard. Instead, VanVleet stayed.
This season, VanVleet has still produced at an impressive level, averaging 19.6 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.5 assists per game while shooting 34.1% from 3-point range.
