Toronto Raptors president Masai Ujiri says trading DeMar DeRozan to the San Antonio Spurs last summer in the blockbuster Kawhi Leonard trade was “devastating” for him.

DeRozan spent the first nine years of his NBA career with the Raptors. The All-Star made it known many times he wanted to spend his entire career in Toronto.

Reportedly, Ujiri told DeRozan at Summer League he wasn't planning on trading him, which is why DeMar was so heartbroken. The trade worked out in the end, as Leonard led Toronto to its first-ever championship last season against the Golden State Warriors.

Related NewsArticle continues below
Ranking 5 best Darius Garland trade destinations if Cavs blow it up
Ranking 5 best Darius Garland trade destinations if Cavs blow it up
Collin Murray-Boyles, Noa Essengue, Khaman Maluach in the middle, Head coach Darko Rajakovic, and GM Bobby Webster around them, Toronto Raptors wallpaper in the background
Toronto Raptors’ 3 best options for No. 9 pick in 2025 NBA Draft

However, the move wasn't easy for Masai Ujiri, who knew Raptors fans and the city of Toronto had a close bond with DeRozan. The California native is the Raptors’ franchise leader in games, minutes, field goals and points. He received a standing ovation from Raptors fans when the Spurs came to Scotiabank Arena in February.

In his first season with the Spurs, DeMar DeRozan averaged 21.2 points, 6.0 rebounds and 6.2 assists. The 30-year-old shot 48.1 percent from the field and 83.0 percent from the free-throw line.

The Raptors lost Kawhi Leonard this offseason to the Los Angeles Clippers in free agency. The trade was worth it, though, for Ujiri and Toronto despite the emotions of seeing DeRozan leave.