Of all Raptors, DeMar DeRozan is going to have to define himself the most. The Raps are now in search of another scorer to compliment Andrea Bargnani and Jarrett Jack, and this could be a prime opportunity for the young DeRozan to find his offensive game. Last year in his rookie campaign, DeMar averaged a modest 9 points and 3 boards per game while shooting right around 50%.
This summer for DeMar has not been an off-season; he's been in the gym every day lifting, shooting and scrimmaging, trying to become a complete player. As DMDR told RealGM, "I want to improve and it's better than sitting at home... I get to be in the gym and get out there and play against other guys". This determination, it seems, has translated onto the court thus far. DMDR simply tore up the Vegas Summer League, averaging around 21 PPG (third most in Vegas) and 5 RPG. Even more impressive are DeMar's percentages, shooting 58% from the field and 40% from three. DeMar was named to the all-tournament team in Las Vegas alongside names like John Wall, JJ Hickson, and Ty Lawson.
It is important, regrettably, to take these numbers with a grain of salt. After all, the Summer League is hardly an indicator of NBA success. But what we can see when watching DMDR is his progression. Firstly, DeMar has put on about 10 pounds of muscle since last season, allowing him to control himself more in the lane and be a stronger battler for defensive position and rebounds. Furthermore, we are seeing a more confident player. DMDR averaged 13 shot attempts per game in the Summer League and showed that he is not afraid to take a clutch shot and be selfish. It is also a great thing to see that DeMar is adding a three point shot to his arsenal.
So, will DMDR be an All-Star next year? Eh, probably not, but all signs indicate that we will see a more aggressive, offensively complete player come October, who could be a viable second or third option for Year One A.B.
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