Ujiri: Retaining VanVleet 'a big-time priority' for Raptors
If Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri has his way, Fred VanVleet will remain with the organization for the foreseeable future.
The executive admitted Thursday during his end-of-season media availability that retaining VanVleet is atop the Raptors' wish list this offseason.
"Fred is a priority. A big-time priority," Ujiri said, according to The Athletic's Blake Murphy.
VanVleet, 26, is coming off a breakout campaign with the Raptors. He averaged career highs in points (17.6), assists (6.6), rebounds (3.8), steals (1.9), and 3-point percentage (39%) across 54 games.
The highly coveted guard is set to hit unrestricted free agency this coming offseason along with big men Serge Ibaka and Marc Gasol. Ujiri expressed optimism in being able to re-sign both of those players, as well.
VanVleet played a key role in helping Toronto finish the regular season with the NBA's second-best record at 53-19.