Toronto Raptor fans finally have something to be legitimately upbeat about. As far as former Raptor players and previous Raptor draft picks go; those who once garnered cheers are now jeered. Past Raptor draft picks have been questionable, while those players passed over are experiencing great success.

For the large part, free-agent signings have been disastrous. Money has been strewn around to aging veterans and bit-part players. Bryan Colangelo has consistently looked overseas for his young talent and they haven’t panned out as advertised.

Trades have not been advantageous, and those acquired players have not been productive. I realize that not all draft picks, trades, nor free-agent acquisitions will all work out. As an avid NBA fan, I expect better results out of an ownership and management group.

From a fantasy perspective, the Raptors have lacked a go to guy for years. Fantasy GM’s don’t put much stock in Andrea Bargnani or Jose Calderon. Fantasy GM’s need a producer, a guy who is consistent night in and night out.

The Raptors finally have their guy and so do fantasy GM’s. Kyle Lowry has emerged as the undeniable leader on the Raptors. He represents the player that the Raptors have been looking for through all these years. For a fantasy GM, Lowry represents a top five fantasy option at the point guard spot.

That’s right, a top-five talent: Chris Paul, Russell Westbrook, Deron Williams, Rajon Rondo and Kyle Lowry. Originally speculated as being a top fifteen talent, his play has catapulted him into the rarer air of the leagues elite. If this guy is available in your league, do yourself a favour and grab him. Playing in a salary cap league? Unless you already have a top five point guard, sell your guy and buy Lowry. His value is a fantastic bargain at this stage of the season.

Here are Lowry’s stats through three games:

Oct 31 vs. Indiana – 36 min, 21 points, 7 rebounds, 8 assists and 5 steals.
Nov 3 @ Brooklyn – 34 min, 28 points, 8 rebounds, 8 assists, 1 block and 3 steals.
Nov 4 vs. Minnesota – 32 min, 22 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals.

For a 6’0” point guard to get you 7 or 8 rebounds a night is incredible. These numbers may not be sustainable, but he will still grab 5 or 6 rebounds a game. Last season, Lowry showed what he can do in a consistent starting role as the Houston Rockets gave him a chance. The Raptors will be giving Lowry every chance he needs as he is the driving force behind the offense.

For fantasy GM’s everywhere, pick this guy up now before his fantasy value catches up to his on-court production. Lowry is a bargain at this point in the season. Aside from James Harden, Lowry is the only other player who could be classified as a must draft.