Fred VanVleet played his first seven years in the NBA with the Toronto Raptors.
The Toronto Raptors have established themselves as a competitive franchise in the NBA, culminating in a championship victory in 2019.
A key element of Toronto’s success has been the exceptional playmaking ability of several standout players. Here are the top five all-time assist leaders in Toronto Raptors history.
1. Kyle Lowry – 4,277 Assists
Kyle Lowry holds the record for the most assists in Toronto Raptors history with 4,277. Joining the Raptors in 2012, Lowry quickly became the team’s leader, both on and off the court. Known for his toughness, court vision, and ability to make plays, he transformed the Raptors into a perennial playoff team. Lowry’s leadership was pivotal during the franchise’s historic run to the 2019 NBA Championship, where his playmaking and clutch performances helped secure critical victories. His impact on the franchise has solidified his status as one of the greatest Raptors of all time.
2. José Calderón – 3,770 Assists
José Calderón ranks second with 3,770 assists during his tenure with the Raptors. Calderón played for Toronto from 2005 to 2013 and was known for his exceptional shooting and playmaking ability. His remarkable assist-to-turnover ratio showcased his efficiency as a point guard. Calderón was a steady presence for the Raptors, often facilitating the offense and contributing to the development of young talent during his time with the team. His contributions in facilitating the ball movement were instrumental in the Raptors’ success in the late 2000s.
3. Fred VanVleet – 2,199 Assists
Fred VanVleet, a key figure in the Raptors’ 2019 championship run, ranks third with 2,199 assists. Emerging as a standout player after going undrafted in 2016, VanVleet’s development into a reliable starting point guard has been remarkable. His tenacity, shooting, and ability to create plays for teammates made him an essential part of the Raptors’ core. VanVleet’s performance in the playoffs, particularly during the 2019 Finals, endeared him to fans and solidified his place in the franchise’s history as one of the premier playmakers.
4. DeMar DeRozan – 2,078 Assists
DeMar DeRozan, known primarily for his scoring ability, ranks fourth with 2,078 assists. Playing for the Raptors from 2009 to 2018, DeRozan was a prolific scorer and a versatile offensive threat. While he gained recognition for his mid-range game, DeRozan also developed as a playmaker during his time in Toronto. His ability to drive to the basket often drew defenders, allowing him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. DeRozan’s dual threat as a scorer and facilitator was a significant factor in the Raptors’ success during his tenure.
5. Pascal Siakam – 1,846 Assists
Pascal Siakam rounds out the top five with 1,846 assists. Siakam has emerged as one of the most dynamic forwards in the league since being drafted by the Raptors in 2016. His unique combination of size, agility, and skill allows him to not only score but also create opportunities for his teammates. As he evolved into a key player for the Raptors, Siakam’s playmaking ability became increasingly important, particularly during the 2019 championship run. His contributions as both a scorer and facilitator have made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Conclusion
The Toronto Raptors have seen numerous players contribute significantly to their success, particularly in the realm of playmaking. Kyle Lowry, José Calderón, Fred VanVleet, DeMar DeRozan, and Pascal Siakam have all left their mark on the franchise as top assist leaders. Their ability to create opportunities for their teammates has not only elevated their individual careers but also helped shape the Raptors into a competitive force in the NBA. As the franchise continues to grow, the legacies of these playmakers will remain integral to its history.