Fred VanVleet is working on getting Canadian citizenship

The 28-year-old has been with the Raptors since 2016, and helped lead the team to their first NBA Championship in franchise history last season. He’s set to become a free agent this offseason.

“My wife is from Toronto, my kids were born in Toronto, I spend more time in Canada than I do in the States now,” said VanVleet. “I take pride in that, I rep that…For me to get my citizenship is just a formality at this point. It makes sense for me and my family.”

The Toronto Raptors guard, who was born in Rockford, Illinois, has become a fan favourite in his three seasons with the team. VanVleet has played a big role in the Raptors’ run to the NBA Finals, averaging 17.6 points and 6.6 assists in the playoffs.

VanVleet is set to become a free agent this offseason, and while he says he would like to stay in Toronto, he knows it may not be possible.

“I would love to (re-sign with the Raptors), but I understand it’s a business,” VanVleet said. “I’ve seen guys in my position before, guys that I came in with, leave and go other places. It’s just part of the process.

“I would love to stay here, but if not, I definitely want to come back and visit. This is, by far, the best place I’ve ever been as a professional.”

VanVleet isn’t the only Raptor with an uncertain future. All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard is also set to become a free agent, and there has been speculation that he could return to his native Southern California to play for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Raptors president Masai Ujiri has said that re-signing Leonard is the team’s “priority” this offseason, but it remains to be seen if Leonard will stay in Toronto.”