History

Top 5 all-time Toronto Raptors steals leaders

Explore the top five career steals leaders and their impact on the franchise's defensive history.

NBA.com Staff

November 25, 2024 2:23 PM

DeMar DeRozan is among the top 5 Toronto Raptors steal leaders.

The Toronto Raptors are three decades into their existence and, as a result, modern NBA fans are likely familiar with most of the names in the top five — and even the top 10 — on the Raptors’ career steals leaderboard. Several players on this list are still active in the NBA, though none currently play for Toronto. Here’s a closer look at the top five.

1. Kyle Lowry – 873 steals

At 38, Lowry remains a key contributor to the 76ers’ rotation. However, his legacy is cemented in Toronto, where he earned a spot on the franchise’s proverbial Mount Rushmore. Lowry spent nine seasons with the Raptors, making all six of his career All-Star appearances during that time. He is also the franchise’s all-time leader in assists, showcasing his ability to both create opportunities and disrupt opposing offenses.

2. Doug Christie – 664 steals

Christie is as close to a blast from the past as the Raptors get, given that he played for the franchise in the 1990s. He may be best known for his years with the Kings, as he was in the top five in Defensive Player of the Year voting twice there. However, the defensive acumen that led to Christie making four All-Defense teams in his career was on display in Toronto as well. Across four seasons plus 32 games of another season after being dealt to Sacramento, Christie averaged 2.1 steals per game.

3. DeMar DeRozan – 655 steals

DeRozan began his career with the Raptors, making his mark as a prolific scorer. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in points and games played, despite having spent over half a decade with other teams. DeRozan was also reliable on defense, averaging nearly one steal per game throughout his 675 games with the Raptors.

4. Fred VanVleet – 562 steals

Opposing guards had to be extra cautious when VanVleet shared the Raptors’ backcourt with Lowry. Add Kawhi Leonard to the mix during the championship season, and Toronto’s defense was formidable. VanVleet, one of the most successful undrafted players in NBA history, averaged at least 1.7 steals per game in each of his final four seasons with the Raptors. He parlayed that success into a lucrative contract with the Houston Rockets, where he continues to thrive.

5. Morris Peterson – 552 steals

Known as “Mo Pete,” Peterson was part of the legendary “Flintstones” Michigan State team that won an NCAA championship. He had a solid NBA career, averaging 12 points and one steal per game during his time in Toronto.

The rest of the top 10