Jamal Shead Steps Up as the Raptors Young Leader

Jamal Shead #23 of the Toronto Raptors looks on during the game against the Utah Jazz on March 14, 2025 at Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Photo by Melissa Majchrzak/NBAE via Getty Images)

By Avery Torff and William Jiggetts | Oct 8, 2025 | 8:43 PM |

Hosting teammates over the offseason has pushed Jamal Shead into a new, more prominent role among his peers.

In many respects, Shead’s emerging leadership role echoes that of Fred VanVleet, an undersized guard who entered the league undrafted.

Shead went on to detail the nuances of his evolving role.

“Honestly, it’s just information. I’m a point guard. I give out information. They take it, they receive it, and then we move on from there,” Shead said. “I don’t think it’s more of them just following me [because] I’m the best leader ever. I think it’s just more of a respect thing.”

Shead’s charisma and humility are evident when he talks about his teammates, praising Immanuel Quickley as the Raptor in the best shape — himself included.

“I think he’s just built that way. I got a little bit more meat on my bones, but I think the way he prepares himself, I’m about to take a page out of his book and see if I can match that.”

Shead was selected by the Sacramento Kings in the 2024 NBA draft, but was immediately traded on draft night to the Toronto Raptors.

Shead appeared in 75 games during his rookie season, averaging 7.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists.