What can we expect from DeRozan this season?

First let me put this disclaimer out there, I am a huge DeRozan fan and think he has top-20 talent.

DeMar DeRozan is set to become more of a focal point of this team this season and this writer would have it no other way.

DeRozan was one of the top players of the Las Vegas summer league with John Wall, and yes, I know it is only summer league but DeRozan was able to showcase his improved shot, decision making and an ability to create for himself and others off the dribble.

DeMar DeRozan has 18 ppg upside this season and a 15 ppg season seems all but assured. DeRozan also has the potential to average 6+ rebounds a game and 3+ assists a game. The sky is literally the limit for this super talented sophomore who now has an opportunity that he did not have last season.

The games DeRozan started last year will play a major factor is his hastened development this year and Raptor fans stand to be pleasantly surprised at DeRozan’s true abilities.

According to a recent poll run by Raptors Digest almost 40% of fans prefer DeMar DeRozan to the Raptors new #1 option over Andrea Bargnani, and this writer while not sure he is ready to be the #1 also hopes that DeRozan will take over at some time this season.

DeRozan will not need to become a leader this year and neither will Andrea as long as Jarrett Jack remains in town, but both need to take steps in that direction.

Jack helping shoulder the leadership role will be key for both Andrea and DeMar’s development as neither have the demeanour to take on that role at this stage in their psychological development.

We look forward to DeRozan participating in the slam dunk competition this year and for those who missed it check out the Young Gunz dunk-off between DeMar DeRozan, Amir Johnson and Sonny Weems.

We expect DeRozan to put his stamp on this franchise this year and Raptor fans may have the chance to see DeMar DeRozan take the next step in becoming the superstar he has the potential to be.

Raju Byfield is a Senior Sports Writer for Raptors Digest.

Raju Byfield also writes for Win My Fantasy League as a Senior Sports Writer/Fantasy Sports Analyst.