Fred VanVleet, Who Once Named 6ft 2″ Kyrie Irving the Toughest to Guard, Gets ‘Champion’ and ‘Winner’ Tags from Uncle Drew

The Brooklyn Nets seemed to have flipped the switch off late, winning the last nine of their ten games. While many believed it was too soon to bet on Kevin Durant and co, given most of their wins came against mediocre teams, their recent outing against the Raptors on the road has compelled the league to take notice of them.

The eastern conference matchup had a nail-biting finish, with the Nets stealing this one in Toronto. The night belonged to Kyrie Irving, who sealed the win with his 3-point game-winner over Fred VanVleet, via a crossover against the Raptors guard.

The Nets superstar duo of Durant and Irving combined for 60-points. Speaking of the host’s Raptors, despite matching his season high of 39-points, VanVleet couldn’t get the job done. Nonetheless, he had the utmost respect for Kai, who had the game-winner over him.

“He’s the best in the world at that right there,” said FVV. “You have to salute him.”

Via: ESPN

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Meanwhile, Irving too would follow suit, calling the 28-year-old Raptors guard a winner and champion.

Kyrie Irving gives his flowers to Fred VanVleet.

It was a bitter-sweet moment for FVV, who lost the game against the visiting Nets. However, the high praise from peer and former champion Irving could provide some respite. When asked about the Raptors All-Star, Uncle Drew said the following.

Coming off a career year, VanVleet has failed to up his game, with his numbers on a consistent plummet. The former champion is averaging 19.0 PPG, 6.3 APG, and 3.8 RPG, shooting a poor 38.6% from the field, leaving a lot to be expected from a relatively young roster of the Raptors.

Hopefully, the loss against the Nets serves as a turning point for FVV, with the Raptors 3 games down from being +500.  There is no doubt when it comes to the talent on the roster, with names like Scottie Barnes, Pascal Siakam, and O.G. Anunoby.

When Fred VanVleet named his toughest opponent to guard.

Two small guards, who can make the big men dance with their handles, both VanVleet and Irving cannot be mistaken for their 6-foot frame.

The two champions have had some intense battles over the past, with Kai (6-4) having the edge over their 10 meetings so far. Nevertheless, VanVleet has always held the seven-time All-Star in high regard, even admitting to him being the toughest opponent to guard.

Well, it will certainly be great to see the two stars duel in a playoff series.

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