DeMar DeRozan interview

DeMar DeRozan finally speaks about Toronto's epic playoff run

Former Raptors player DeMar DeRozan says he was the "sacrificial lamb" that laid the groundwork for Toronto’s first NBA Finals.

"If it wasn’t for me, nothing would be possible right now for them," DeRozan said in an interview with Taylor Rooks. "You just have to sit back and understand that you are the reason that this is even possible."

Last year, DeRozan was swapped for Kawhi Leonard in a trade with the San Antonio Spurs. DeRozan loved playing for the Raptors and hoped to spend his entire career with the team. 

Now, despite a bitter breakup that featured a Jack in the Box parking lot, DeRozan says he's rooting for the Raptors, but the trade still hurts.

DeRozan says he has no ill intent and that all of the players on the team over the years led the Raptors to where they are now.

Lead photo by

Toronto Raptors


Latest Videos



Latest Videos


Latest in Sports & Play

Toronto Blue Jays interested in signing versatile veteran pitcher

Vladdy puts out subtle recruiting pitch to bring Kyle Tucker to Toronto Blue Jays

Toronto Blue Jays star Ernie Clement still plays beer league hockey

John Schneider watched play that cost Toronto Blue Jays World Series '3000 times'

MLB insider tabs these three Toronto Blue Jays players as trade possibilities

Here's what the TTC is doing to prepare for FIFA World Cup 2026 madness

Win a stay for two at Toronto’s Great Canadian Resort or Pickering Casino Resort

John Schneider reveals Toronto Blue Jays' offseason wish list