DeMar DeRozan (Part 2)

26xK...gHma

11 Mar 2024

DeMar DeRozan (Part 2)

DeMar DeRozan's transition to the NBA began with his selection as the ninth overall pick by the Toronto Raptors in the 2009 NBA draft. His decision to forgo his remaining college eligibility at USC was motivated in part by his desire to support his mother, who suffers from lupus.
Upon joining the Raptors, DeRozan wasted no time in making an impact on the court. He signed his rookie scale contract in July 2009 and quickly became known for his athleticism and scoring ability. In the 2010 Sprite Slam Dunk Competition, DeRozan impressed fans with his high-flying dunks, ultimately finishing in second place.

Throughout his early years with the Raptors, DeRozan continued to develop his game and showcase his scoring prowess. On December 31, 2010, he recorded a then career-high 37 points against the Houston Rockets, demonstrating his ability to take over games offensively. He would go on to match or surpass this career high two more times over the next three years, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's premier scorers.
DeRozan's consistent scoring output and dedication to his craft earned him recognition as one of the top shooting guards in the NBA. His performances on the court earned him multiple selections to the NBA All-Star Game and cemented his status as a franchise cornerstone for the Toronto Raptors.

During the 2013–14 NBA season, DeMar DeRozan experienced a breakout year, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility on the court. He averaged career-highs in points, rebounds, and assists, leading the Toronto Raptors to a successful season with a 48–34 record and a third-seed finish in the Eastern Conference.
DeRozan's remarkable season was highlighted by several standout performances. On January 22, 2014, he erupted for a then career-high 40 points against the Dallas Mavericks, demonstrating his scoring prowess. Later that season, DeRozan was selected as a reserve guard for the Eastern Conference All-Star team, showcasing his status among the league's elite players.

In the playoffs, DeRozan continued to shine, recording multiple 30-point games and setting franchise records for scoring. Despite his individual success, the Raptors fell short in the playoffs, losing to the Brooklyn Nets in a hard-fought seven-game series.
The following season, DeRozan continued to excel, posting impressive numbers and earning recognition as the Eastern Conference Player of the Month in April. In the playoffs, he set new career and franchise records, further solidifying his status as a key player for the Raptors.
Throughout these seasons, DeRozan's contributions both on and off the court endeared him to fans and solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in Toronto Raptors history.

During the 2015-2016 NBA season, DeMar DeRozan continued to solidify his status as one of the premier players in the league, delivering exceptional performances and leading the Toronto Raptors to unprecedented success.
DeRozan's season was marked by numerous milestones and accolades. He earned his second All-Star nod in three years and was named an Eastern Conference All-Star reserve. Additionally, he was recognized as the Eastern Conference Player of the Week and was named co-winner of the Eastern Conference Player of the Month alongside teammate Kyle Lowry for their outstanding performances in January.
Throughout the season, DeRozan showcased his scoring ability, recording multiple high-scoring games, including a season-high 38 points against the Portland Trail Blazers in March. He also set an NBA record with 24 consecutive free throws made in a single game during that same matchup.

In addition to his scoring prowess, DeRozan demonstrated his versatility by contributing across multiple statistical categories, recording double-digit rebounds and assists in several games.
DeRozan's leadership was instrumental in guiding the Raptors to a historic 56-26 regular-season record, marking the first time in franchise history that the team reached the 50-win milestone. He played a pivotal role in the playoffs, helping the Raptors secure their first-ever best-of-seven series victory by defeating the Indiana Pacers in the first round.
DeRozan's impact continued in the subsequent rounds of the playoffs, as he played a key role in the Raptors' historic run to the Eastern Conference Finals. Despite falling short against the Cleveland Cavaliers, DeRozan's contributions throughout the season and playoffs solidified his legacy as one of the greatest players in Raptors history.