The shift has been subtle but undeniable, and no matter what happens in the future with Kyle Lowry — whether he stays to live out his NBA dotage or seeks more seasons and different challenges elsewhere — there is one indisputable fact that has emerged.
The Toronto Raptors are Fred VanVleet’s team.
And it is in good hands.
After the oddest and one of the worst seasons in franchise history wrapped up on Sunday afternoon, VanVleet knows he will be central to any success in the future as the leader of the team.
“There’s some things I need to get better at,” the Raptors guard said after Sunday’s 125-113 loss to the Indiana Pacers.