5 things to watch for during Toronto Raptors training camp

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#2 – DeMar DeRozan’s incremental improvements

Aug 1, 2014; Las Vegas, NV, USA; USA Team Blue guard DeMar DeRozan (45) dunks the ball during the USA Basketball Showcase at Thomas & Mack Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports

I think DeMar DeRozan gets a bad rap these days after coming off a down year. Did we really forget the player that he was an All-Star, a clutch player and a very productive wing in 2013-14?

He started last year poorly and was quickly injured, which sidetracked his whole season. However, he looked like his old self  during the back end of the season in March and April. During the last 22 games of the regular season, he shot 45.5% from the field and 39.5% from long-range.

DeRozan also averaged more than 5 rebounds and 4 Assists while pouring in 24 points per game during that time. Aside from the playoffs, we got to see the player we knew and loved. Now, take the great things from DeRozan’s game and add a reliable 3-point shot.

In Team USA’s recent scrimmage, he let the 3-pointers fly with great success! DeRozan managed to go 3-7 in the showcase. This is great news for Raptors fans, since he should be able to effectively spread the floor for the first time in his career.

Next: The Centre of attention