The Toronto Raptors ended the previous season with a 48-34 record, which was good enough for the 5th spot in the East and entrance to the playoffs.
This season, things are different: the Raptors are currently the 11th seed in their conference and are fighting to get back above .500.
In other words, 2022-23 hasn’t gone smoothly for the boys from up north.
“There’s rumblings about certain players on the team not being happy and due to tampering, I can’t speak to that but I think they’re gonna move someone.” 👀👀👀
– CJ McCollum on the Raptors
(h/t @hoopshype ) pic.twitter.com/G46v1VOYZU
— NBACentral (@TheNBACentral) January 16, 2023
This has led to a lot of talk of possible trades with the former champions.
The rumors have gotten so loud, in fact, that an NBA star is talking about them now.
New Orleans Pelicans guard CJ McCollum touched upon possible moves within the Raptors organization, saying, “There’s rumblings about certain players on the team not being happy and due to tampering, I can’t speak to that but I think they’re gonna move someone.”
Obviously, McCollum doesn’t mention any players by name but many people assume he is referring to Fred VanVleet.
For years now, VanVleet has been the face of the team in many ways, known for his drive, his fierce determination, and his leadership skills.
But his name has been attached to more and more rumors and possible trades over the last few months.
So far this season, VanVleet has averaged 17.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 6.3 assists, which is a step down from the numbers he produced last year.
While no public statements have been made by the All-Star, there has been talk of him being unhappy with the direction his team is moving in.
So, has McCollum received solid information and will VanVleet be leaving Toronto in the near future?
He would be welcomed by many other teams throughout the league and he could again become passionate about the right team.
NEXT: Raptors Get An Update On One Of Their Biggest Stars