In discussions about clutch players, DeMar DeRozan deserves recognition as one of the elite at securing victories in razor-thin games. His journey can be viewed in two distinct phases: the first during his younger years as the cornerstone of the Toronto Raptors franchise, and the second encompassing his time with the San Antonio Spurs, Chicago Bulls, and now the Sacramento Kings. Simply put, DeRozan has adapted to the ever-changing NBA landscape, demonstrating a skill set that ensures his longevity as a star player.
DeRozan's ability to focus and shift momentum in his team's favor was on full display during the Sacramento Kings vs. Toronto Raptors game on November 6. DeRozan was a scoring powerhouse, demonstrating remarkable efficiency as he tallied 27 points with a field goal percentage of 52.4%. He also made 2 of 4 attempts from beyond the arc, demonstrating that this aspect of his game should not be overlooked.
To be frank, DeMar DeRozan seldom has an off night when facing his former team, the Toronto Raptors. Instead, he often rises to the occasion, tapping into a deep reservoir of motivation to deliver a truly memorable performance. However, fans on social media are left questioning: where was this unstoppable force when the Raptors needed him the most?
DeMar DeRozan got called out on social media
Not the 2014-2018 playoffs
— chris boucher fan account (@W3TheN0rth) November 7, 2024
Not when it mattered for us
— Lion (@The_Dank_Lion) November 7, 2024
For many years, DeMar DeRozan and Kyle Lowry served as the heart and soul of the Toronto Raptors. Together, they, along with their supporting cast, fought tirelessly to secure postseason success. However, despite their relentless efforts, the DeRozan-led Raptors consistently fell short of reaching the ultimate goal.
Over time, it became clear that DeMar DeRozan was not the championship-caliber superstar that Toronto had initially envisioned. The same fans who once praised him began to voice their disappointment, criticizing DeRozan for his struggles in high-stakes games, particularly when the Raptors faced their kryptonite, LeBron James. This shift in perception underscored the growing frustration with the team's inability to advance in the playoffs.
not in front of lebron https://t.co/KeAVZmhmj2
— ✨just vibes✨ (@MaFuzzyRaps) November 7, 2024
Now, six years after the blockbuster trade that sent DeMar DeRozan to San Antonio in exchange for Kawhi Leonard, the Compton native remains a formidable offensive presence in the later stages of his career. However, upon closer examination, one is prompted to ask: Does DeMar DeRozan truly excel only during the regular season? In recent years, his teams have consistently struggled in the playoffs since his departure from Toronto, except for the promising Chicago Bulls squad that featured a healthy Lonzo Ball.
DeMar DeRozan is undoubtedly a polarizing figure in Toronto Raptors history. Many fans recall him as a dynamic scoring powerhouse during his prime, while others emphasize his struggles in high-pressure situations. While DeRozan has often been made a scapegoat for the team's shortcomings, much like Vince Carter before him, a significant number of frustrated Raptors fans still find themselves casting blame on their former All-Star.