Trading DeMar DeRozan is what ultimately won the Toronto Raptors their first NBA championship, as the Raptors acquired Kawhi Leonard from the San Antonio Spurs in the deal during the summer of 2018.
However, that does not mean DeRozan did not have a massive impact on Toronto.
Fans still speak glowingly of DeRozan, as do his former teammates.
Take wing Norman Powell, for example, who credits DeRozan for helping him grow as a player:
“DeMar was a tremendous vet for me,” said Powell, according to Josh Lewenberg of TSN. “I always looked up to DeMar growing up, watching him play. He was one of my favorite players. He really helped me when he was here, keeping me mentally focused and showing me the ins and outs of the league.”
Powell added that he still keeps in touch with DeRozan and that DeRozan is still a “mentor and big brother” to him.
DeRozan spent the first 10 years of his career with the Raptors. He made four All-Star appearances and helped lead Toronto to the playoffs five times, including an Eastern Conference Finals trip in 2016.
Still, in spite of his prolific scoring averages and individual accomplishments, Toronto was never able to get over the hump. Furthermore, the 30-year-old's shaky playoff performances and questionable defense were always points of contention.
That being said, DeRozan will surely forever be loved by Raptors fans for his contributions over the years.
Toronto will host DeRozan and the Spurs on Sunday night.
Follow Us
Subscribe