Raptors Can Thank Kobe for DeMar DeRozan Staying in Toronto

While there are other factors to consider, if it wasn’t for Kobe Bryant, DeMar DeRozan might not have re-signed with the Toronto Raptors.

While the US celebrates Thanksgiving Day, Toronto Raptors fans also have a lot to be thankful for. In particular, this includes the fact their beloved team is currently enjoying the most sustained success in franchise history.

Part of this is due to the continued growth of DeMar DeRozan, who is now in his eighth season in Toronto. Interestingly, if it wasn’t for Kobe Bryant, the shooting guard might not still be in Toronto.

In truth, there was little drama when DeRozan started discussing a new contract with the Raptors last summer. He had made it pretty clear leading up to free agency, that his preference was to remain in Southern Ontario, with him even giving the organization an exclusive window to negotiate a deal.

More from Tip of the Tower

Of course, the size of the contract — five years and $139 million — was a significant reason behind the 27-year old’s decision to stay in Toronto. However, five-time NBA champion Bryant also played a part.

DeRozan recently sat down to chat with Marc J Spears of The Undefeated. One of the most interesting parts of the interviews, was when Spears asked the Compton, California native if it was tough to turn down the opportunity to move back home?

DeRozan said: “Yeah, of course. At the end of the day, the Lakers are the Lakers.

“I grew up a Lakers fan. Kobe was my favorite player growing up. I didn’t miss a game as a kid.”

However, it was what the two-time NBA All-Star said next, which was particularly telling: “Just to have the opportunity was amazing. I watched one of my favorite players create a legacy of his own and leave his mark there.”

DeRozan is renowned for being loyal, which explains part of the rationale behind his wanting to remain with the team that drafted him. However, it’s intriguing to think that while watching Bryant achieve so much success with the Lakers, it formed the genesis for his wanting to leave his own mark in Toronto.

Further evidence of this comes in the 2009 ninth overall draft pick’s response, when asked by Spears if he wants to be the greatest Raptors player of all time: “Without a doubt. No question. How many people get to say they hold one record for an organization, or were on the winningest team in Raptors history, or did this with one organization?

“All of those things last longer than your playing career. It took time for me to get out of the second round (of the playoffs) in Raptors history and we did that (this year), and that’s something that is going to be there.”

Spurred on by his new contract and continuing quest to be the best, DeRozan’s explosive start to the 2016-17 campaign should come as little surprise. He is currently averaging over 30 points per game, putting him among the NBA leaders in scoring.

Aug 21, 2016; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; USA guard Demar DeRozan (9) and USA guard Kyle Lowry (7) celebrates winning the gold medal in the men’s gold game during the during the Rio 2016 Summer Olympic Games at Carioca Arena 1. Mandatory Credit: RVR Photos-USA TODAY Sports /

However, there’s more to the 2016 Summer Olympics Gold medalist’s game. He is currently also on course to set career-highs in rebounds, assists and steals.

In that respect, Rio played a role in DeRozan’s appreciation of the importance of being a team player. This included not seeing any action in the semifinal game.

The 2009 Pac-10 Tournament MVP said: “It’s an amazing thing just to be able to go down as one of the greatest Olympic teams. That’s a blessing.

“You understand what it takes to sacrifice. You understand what it really means to take a backseat, so to speak — to fight for something bigger than you.”

When asked by Spears where his Gold Medal is, DeRozan says it’s at home – in Los Angeles. However, Raptors fans can look forward to him also calling Toronto home for now as he continues his path towards NBA greatness, spurred on by the memories of his idol.

Next: Raptors nominated for FanSided's Fandom 250

What’s your take on how DeRozan has been playing so far this season? Further, even though we’re North of the Border, what are you thankful for as a Raptors fan? Let us know in the comments section.

Home/Toronto Raptors