Fred VanVleet is having a hell of the season for the Toronto Raptors. In his first year as the lead guard of the team, VanVleet has been excellent for them. He’s posting career-highs in nearly every stat while maintaining his elite defense against other guards. His exploits have earned him his first All-Star berth in his career.

Prior to the Raptors’ tilt against the Bulls, Toronto legend DeMar DeRozan came over to congratulate Fred VanVleet on being selected to the All-Star game as a reserve. (via Raptorr)

VanVleet’s career year comes after Kyle Lowry’s departure from the team. With the former heart of the Raptors leaving, the onus was on the undrafted guard to match his mentor’s production. He’s done that and then some, averaging 21.5 points, 7 assists, and 4.7 points per game (all career-highs). He’s been the undeniable leader of this young Raptors team, and they’re well in the mix for a playoff berth.

As for DeRozan, the former Raptors product is also having a career year with the Bulls. His clutch performances and insane production has the Bulls on top of the Eastern Conference, and he was voted as an All-Star starter this season. With the All-Star teams being selected through a draft, it’s possible that these two can team up once again.

Fred VanVleet became just the fourth undrafted player to make the All-Star game, the last one being Ben Wallace for Detroit. The Raptors guard’s motto of “Bet on Yourself” has paid off significantly, as he’s recognized as one of the best players in the conference today.