When the player rankings from various media outlets came out before the start of the season, Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan was noticeably ranked lower than expected.

The 27-year-old USC product proved them all wrong as he started the campaign on fire and even led the league in scoring at one point. More importantly, he has helped the Raptors to a good start and are currently ranked second in the Eastern Conference.

Asked about his thoughts on the player rankings, DeRozan was vocal with his disapproval of it and said he is willing to prove his real worth against anybody in the league.

“I think it's B.S. I'm willing to line up against anyone in the league, and it will be toe-to-toe until the end. I believe I've proved that.”

“You put in so much work, it's almost sickening, I watch everything, I read everything. I've always been a guy who wants to prove somebody wrong.”

“I wouldn't rub it in anyone's face, but that's my gratification. I've seen so many guys' work ethic, and I know it doesn't come close to what I'm putting myself through. When you see those rankings, it makes you want to go out and prove it.”

His team hopes that he uses his low rankings as motivation to strive harder and become a better player. If he does, DeRozan would be in a better position to lead the Raptors as they compete for a title this year.