Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 10, 2024 4:54 pm GMT
DeMar DeRozan’s Bold Claim: Raptors Would Still Have Won the 2019 Title Without Kawhi Leonard
In a surprising statement, NBA All-Star DeMar DeRozan expressed confidence that the Toronto Raptors would have secured the 2019 championship even if he had not been traded to the San Antonio Spurs in the deal for Kawhi Leonard. Speaking with ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith, DeRozan reflected on his time with the Raptors, asserting, “I have no doubt in my mind the same outcome would have happened.” This claim comes as the NBA season heats up, reigniting debates among fans and analysts about the Raptors’ historic win.
Background: DeRozan’s Legacy with the Raptors
DeMar DeRozan spent nine seasons with the Toronto Raptors, making a significant impact on the franchise. He was a key player during five playoff appearances, although his teams consistently fell short of the Finals, largely due to the dominance of LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Frustrating Playoff Runs
Throughout DeRozan’s tenure, the Raptors faced numerous challenges in the playoffs. Injuries, inconsistent performances, and a formidable opponent in James led to early exits. In 2018, the Raptors secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference, but they were swept by the Cavaliers in the second round, marking another disheartening end to their postseason hopes.
DeRozan’s Transition to the Spurs
The pivotal moment came in July 2018 when DeRozan was traded to the Spurs in exchange for Kawhi Leonard. The trade marked the end of an era for both the player and the team and set the stage for Leonard’s brilliant 2019 playoffs.
Kawhi Leonard’s Historic Playoff Performance
In the 2019 playoffs, Kawhi Leonard delivered one of the most memorable postseason performances in NBA history. He led the Raptors to their first-ever championship, averaging 28.5 points per game and showcasing exceptional skill and resilience throughout the tournament.
The 2019 Playoff Run
- In the Eastern Conference Semi-finals, Leonard averaged an incredible 34.7 points and 9.9 rebounds against the Philadelphia 76ers.
- He finished the playoffs with a total of 732 points, ranking third for the most points scored in a postseason behind legends LeBron James and Michael Jordan.
- His buzzer-beater against the 76ers in Game 7 will forever be etched in NBA folklore.
What If DeRozan Had Stayed?
With Leonard’s immense contributions, many wonder how DeRozan’s presence would have changed the outcome for the Raptors. DeRozan believes that had he remained, the Raptors would still have won it all in 2019, pointing out, “The only person we couldn’t beat was LeBron.” His conviction highlights the self-belief he had, potentially seeing the team’s line-up as strong enough to overcome any challenges.
The Current NBA Landscape
As the NBA season progresses, Leonard is now with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he continues to pursue another championship. His journey since leaving Toronto has been marked by highs and lows, including injury struggles, but his drive to regain glory remains resolute.
The Impact of the Trade on Both Teams
The trade not only reshaped the Raptors but also significantly altered the trajectory for DeRozan. While he has enjoyed success with the Spurs and later the Chicago Bulls, the desire to bring a championship to Toronto looms large in his mind.
Fans Weigh In
Fans and analysts are divided on DeRozan’s statement. While some support his confidence, others point to Leonard’s game-changing performance in 2019 as a crucial factor in the championship run. Leonard’s clutch shooting and defensive prowess are seen as vital elements that might have been missing had the Raptors retained DeRozan.
DeRozan’s Desire for Legacy
DeRozan’s aspirations go beyond personal accolades; they reflect a deep bond with the Raptors organization and the city of Toronto. He has often expressed pride in his contributions and the friendships he forged during his time with the team.
Looking to the Future
As the upcoming NBA seasons unfold, DeRozan remains focused on achieving his goals with the Bulls, whilst always cherishing his Raptors legacy. With the league evolving and new talent emerging, the conversation about what could have been for the Raptors in 2019 will continue to intrigue fans and analysts alike.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not DeRozan’s bold claim stands the test of time, it serves as a reminder of the complex decisions teams make and their lasting effects. His statement, rooted in confidence and ambition, adds another layer to the ongoing narrative of one of the NBA’s most memorable seasons.
Related Events
Since this debate resurfaced, the NBA has been buzzing with other significant events, including the injury updates for star players and the start of the upcoming season, which features exciting matchups and new rivalries. Additionally, discussions around players’ trades and amateur prospects have kept fans engaged, offering a glimpse into the future of the league.
What’s Next for the NBA?
- Upcoming games featuring the Raptors and Bulls in prime-time slots, igniting interest in their respective performances.
- Rival teams bolstering their rosters with promising trades, showcasing the ever-evolving nature of the NBA.
- Rising stars looking to make their mark on the league and potentially emulate the playoff success of past champions.
Conclusion
DeMar DeRozan believes the Raptors can do really well in 2019. This makes us think about how teams work together and what they want to be remembered for. As fans look back on previous seasons, they are also excited and hopeful about what the future holds for the NBA.
