Raptors’ Fred VanVleet Ideal Fit For Suns, Says Ex-NBA Executive

A former NBA executive believes NBA All-Star Fred VanVleet is a good fit for the Phoenix Suns.

The former exec told NBA Analysis Network that VanVleet is a more “feasible option” than Kyrie Irving, who has been linked to the Suns.

“A more feasible option than Kyrie for the Suns would be Fred VanVleet,” the former exec said. “He’s not going to get paid quite as much as Kyrie, and with the impact VanVleet has given Toronto, it’s hard to envision them being hostile if it came down to help him get where he wants via sign-and-trade. It doesn’t hurt that he’d be moved out of conference, either.”

VanVleet, who is an undrafted player, signed a four-year, $85 million contract with the Toronto Raptors in November 2020. He averaged 19.3 points, 4.1 rebounds and 7.2 assists this season while shooting 39.3% from the field, 34.2% from beyond the arc, and 89.8% from the free-throw line.

The Raptors lost to the Chicago Bulls in the 9-10 play-in game at home and didn’t qualify for the postseason this year.

Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported in February that the Suns are expected to pursue VanVleet this offseason if the NBA champion hits unrestricted free agency. VanVleet can become an unrestricted free agent this summer if he declines his 2023-24 player option worth $22.8 million.

“Phoenix had already contacted rival teams about other ball-handlers on the February trade market, sources said,” Fischer reported. “And were one team that was expected by league personnel to pursue Fred VanVleet if he truly reaches unrestricted free agency this summer.”

VanVleet will turn 30 during the 2023-24 season. If the Suns are interested in signing the Illinois native, they will have to move on from future Hall of Famer Chris Paul, who has a partially guaranteed contract for next season. CP3 signed a four-year, $120 million contract with the Suns in August 2021.