4 Reasons Fred VanVleet Should Be Your Favorite Player

The Toronto Raptors have become North America's favorite basketball team, as they have pushed the Golden State Warriors to the limit in the NBA Finals and threatened to end their dynasty.

While everyone is gawking over Kawhi Leonard and his downright historic run this postseason, one player isn't nearly getting enough respect. And that's Fred VanVleet.

Here are four reasons why he should be your favorite player right now.

1. Tremendous Energy Off the Bench

VanVleet has become, arguably, the best bench player in these NBA Finals. He gives up minutes to veteran Danny Green, but VanVleet still sees a significant amount of playing time due to his surprisingly assertive defense and spark plug scoring. In fact, VanVleet has averaged 24.3 minutes per game, which is a huge allotment of time as a depth player.

2. Toughness

If VanVleet showed anything throughout the NBA Finals, it's that he's one tough hombre. During Game 4, VanVleet took an elbow to the face from Golden State's Shaun Livingston, causing him to receive a bloody eye and a chipped tooth. Most NBA players would exit the game for good, but VanVleet returned to the bench after receiving stitches. Oh, and let's not forget that he stood up to Warriors star Kevin Durant in Game 5, showcasing that he's not backing down from anyone, no matter how big of a star they are.

3. Stopping Steph

Usually during the NBA Finals, Steph Curry presents himself as a massive problem to the opposition. If Curry is Superman, than VanVleet is able to be his kryptonite. When VanVleet is off the court, Curry has averaged 34.7 points per 36 minutes. When VanVleet is on the court and playing defense, Curry has averaged 24.2 points in that same span. Anyone who doesn't like the Warriors will definitely drop some coin on a Fred VanVleet jersey as a result of his ability to shut down a top five NBA player in stretches.

4. His Newborn Son is the Real MVP

When the NBA Playoffs started, VanVleet struggled mightily, with many fans calling for him to see extra bench time. However, once his son Fred Jr. was born, VanVleet started playing at an unreal level. The guard has become a go-to option behind the three-point line, and once the shot clock is dwindling, VanVleet is clutch. Since Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals, he has averaged 14 points per game and shot 53% from the field (and an awesome 54% from behind the arc). If you like a redemption story, FVV has got you covered.