Raptors' VanVleet giving no credit to newborn son for hot play

Following a tough start to the East Finals (and really the postseason in general), Toronto’s Fred VanVleet was absolutely sensational in Games 4 and 5 of the series against the Milwaukee Bucks. His play has been a huge reason why the Raptors currently lead the best-of-7 clash 3-2 and with that, many have noticed that the new gear he’s been able to find on the hardwood emerged following the birth of his son Fred Jr. on Monday.

Shortly after a 13-point performance in a 120-102 victory on Tuesday night at Scotiabank Arena, he made the connection between his son’s birth and his strong night on the floor while speaking to the media.

Following a 21-point night in Game 5’s 105-99 victory on Thursday where he went 7-for-9 from beyond the arc, the 25-year-old was singing a different tune while chatting with TSN’s Kate Beirness.

“I’m not giving him no credit,” VanVleet said with a cheeky smile when asked how big of a motivator his newest offspring is to him. “It’s all me. You know, it’s all the work that I’ve been putting in... Obviously to have a big life help to clear your mind up a bit gives you a little bit of extra motivation as well.”

Man, Fred Jr. has been on this planet for less than 100 hours and he’s already getting that tough dad love on national television. That is the kind of parenting we need to see more of!

Has Fred Jr. been a combined plus-53 over the last eight quarters? No sir. Is he the one jacking up threes and finding nothing but net? Nope.

Let’s ensure we’re handing out credit where credit is due here.

However, if you’re a Raptors fan, it goes without saying that VanVleet and his partner Shontai Neal should continue to have children born during deep playoff runs in the future.

More Raptors coverage on Yahoo Sports