Toronto Raptors: DeMar DeRozan Celebrated New Deal by Going to Sleep

Despite signing a five-year, $139 million deal, don’t expect DeMar DeRozan to act any differently, as he looks to cement his legacy with the Toronto Raptors.

Imagine you’ve just clinched a contract, that makes you a multi-millionaire and sets you up for life – how would you celebrate? Go away on an impromptu holiday, or maybe gather your closest family and friends together for a party?

At the very least, surely you’d go out on the town and get drunk? (Within reason of course.) But whatever you decide, surely it wouldn’t include getting an early night, right?

Well, that’s exactly what DeMar DeRozan admitted to, when asked by Holly McKenzie of raptors.com. Welcome to the world of the Toronto Raptors‘ most unassuming, unsuperstar-like superstar.

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DeRozan said: “I just treated it like it was a regular day for me. I knew what my gut was telling me, where my feelings were at, the approach I wanted to make.

“With that, it felt regular to me. I didn’t want to put too much pressure, too much hype on myself for something that felt like was right for me.”

In many ways, this speaks volumes about the 2009 ninth overall draft pick. Analysts often comment about his ability to remain calm under pressure, and it’s interesting to get an insight into the mindset which contributes towards this.

Another thing that has become apparent about DeRozan, is his loyalty to the Raptors. Some people talk the talk, but actions speak louder than words.

When it came time to negotiating a new contract, the 26-year old said he didn’t even want to meet any other teams. He got together with Masai Ujiri, and apparently they trashed out the deal within 30 minutes.

DeRozan explained his desire to remain in Toronto: “It’s just (about) how much I’ve grown here, how much I’ve seen the city grow, how much recognition I’ve seen the city gain.

“The whole nines. It’s amazing for me to be a part of that and I feel like I had something to do with it and feel like I’m a staple in the country now.”

Apr 10, 2016; New York, NY, USA; Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) celebrates with forward Patrick Patterson (54) against the New York Knicks during the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Raptors defeated the Knicks 93-89. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Doubters will question the two-time All-Star’s ability to stay grounded, especially now he is $139 million-richer. However, look no further than his recent appearance at the Drew League, a summer pro-am league in South Central Los Angeles.

DeRozan has been going to the Drew League ever since his junior season at Compton High. Drew League commissioner Dino Smiley took some time out to speak to Mark Medina of the LA Daily News, about the Raptors’ point guard.

Smiley said: “People that agree to that kind of deal usually stay away so they can hang out on vacation for a couple weeks, but DeMar just loves the Drew. He always wants to hang out.”

Born and raised in California, some people may have been surprised the 2009 Pac-10 Tournament MVP didn’t at least want to meet the Los Angeles Lakers for talks. However, it once again comes back to loyalty.

Speaking to Medina, DeRozan said: “When you have an opportunity to go home, that’s something that certainly would cross your mind, But it wasn’t anything.

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“After I finish playing, I’m pretty sure I’ll live in L.A. But I just wanted to do something special and leave a legacy of my own in Toronto.”

In his attempts to leave that legacy, rest assured the former Trojan will push himself hard, as he told McKenzie: “It’s (about) finding that extra motivation year in and year out.

“Some way, somehow, you always find that motivation at the highest level it needs to be to preform and come back and be better. That’s what it’s all about.”

This mindset is backed up by DeRozan’s average points, rebounds and assists – along with his free-throw percentage – all improving in four of the last five seasons. Coming off a career-year, don’t bet against him doing even better in the upcoming campaign.

Next: DeMar Carroll takes right approach to Jae Crowder dig

Where do you currently rank DeRozan among the all-time Raptors? Further, when it’s all said and done, what legacy do you predict he will leave behind in Toronto? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Toronto Raptors: DeMar DeRozan Celebrated New Deal by Sleeping

By Paul Taylor | Jul 26, 2016

Despite signing a five-year, $139 million deal, don’t expect DeMar DeRozan to act any differently, as he looks to cement his legacy with the Toronto Raptors.

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