NBA: The return of Melo and 4 other feel-good stories of the season thus far
By Nate Friesen
Pascal Siakam and Fred VanVleet have taken it to another level
The Raptors were probably one of the most slept on teams coming into this season. Most people had the Raptors in the lower half of the playoffs while others had them missing the playoffs completely. But thanks to the continued improvement of Siakam and VanVleet that is far from the case.
The Raptors have looked like a legitimate Eastern Conference contender to start this season and seem to be one trade away from being in the championship contender range. Pascal Siakam has been virtually unstoppable to start this season and has essentially turned into Kawhi Leonard Jr. averaging 26 points, eight rebounds and four assists per game.
Fred VanVleet has continued his hot finish to last years post-season and is looking like a potential all-star point guard to start this season. VanVleet is averaging 18 points and nearly eight assists per game.
Next. The Toronto Raptors have what it takes to be a contender in the Eastern Conference. dark
Both Siakam and VanVleet will be in the conversation for the most improved player this season. It is absolutely incredible to have two candidates for that award on the same team, not to mention they’re already the defending NBA champions. The Raptors present and future is very bright.