Toronto Raptors: can DeMar DeRozan become a star?

By Kevin Nimmock | Aug 12, 2015

DeMar DeRozan is at an important crossroads in his career. After six NBA seasons, the 2014 All-Star has shown he is capable of impressive production, but he continues to be a step away from becoming a truly elite player for the Toronto Raptors. Throughout the last couple of years, he has missed the consistency necessary to be considered one of the NBA’s best guards. Is this the year he makes the leap?

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Last season, DeRozan averaged 20.1 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists, shooting 41% from the field and 28% from beyond-the-arc. His numbers were down slightly from the 2013/14 campaign, which was his best to date. Obviously, this isn’t ideal. DeRozan is still young enough that he should be improving every season. That being said, there were a few reasons his stats were down.

The Raptors became a much better offensive team last season, boasting the league’s 4th-best offensive rating. New player Lou Williams naturally took part of the team’s scoring responsibility from DeRozan, leaving slightly less of the pie to be eaten. In addition, DeRozan suffered the most serious injury of his career, missing over a month with a torn groin. This shook up his confidence and left him rusty for several games after he returned.

Still, the blame for DeRozan’s decrease in production should fall squarely on his own shoulders. Stars need to pull through, regardless of what adversity they face. He tended to have huge games and then fade for a bit. The Raptors need to be able to expect steady production from DeRozan, especially without Williams this season. It would be fair for the team to expect 22 points per game this season.

On defence, his awareness has improved, but he can still be beaten somewhat easily by faster and stronger players. DeRozan needs to commit more on the defensive end, with the belief it will translate to his offensive game. He needs to play harder, more aggressive defence to show he is more than a dynamic shooter.

Speaking of shooting, DeRozan absolutely needs to develop a 3-point shot. 28% is simply not good enough for someone who is expected to play primarily as a shooting guard this season. He will be expected to jack long-range bombs, and his teammates will be counting on them to go in. He should be looking to raise his rate up to around 34%.

In truth, DeRozan’s reputation will probably be judged more by what sort of success he can help the Raptors earn. He needs to put on his leadership pants and show that he can step up at the right moments. During the playoffs against the Washington Wizards, DeRozan was not there. Will be find a way to make a bigger impact this coming season? That will be the strongest indicator of whether he can finally become an elite player.

Overall, the stage is set in DeRozan’s favour. When he wants it, he will get the ball. Plus, with DeMarre Carroll on the roster, his defensive flaws will become a little less obvious. I believe DeRozan can make the leap.

Next: Do the Toronto Raptors really need Jonas Valanciunas?

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