DeMar DeRozan last played for the Toronto Raptors in 2018, but it’s always been clear that they will hold a special place in his heart.
Talk to Podcast P with Paul George, DeRozan reflected on the five years of his career since his fateful trade from the Raptors to the Spurs in 2018, admitting he never quite had the same relationship with his last two NBA cities in San Antonio and Chicago.
“That’s the thing too, I think since I left Toronto, I never found an emotional connection to where I was, in the sense that I needed to take all of that with me. I never had that, it’s always like, ‘Okay, whatever, okay,’ I realize it when I get to the next place,” DeRozan told the podcast.
After three seasons with the Chicago Bulls, DeRozan signed with the Sacramento Kings in free agency this year.
“For me, home is Los Angeles, California. That’s my home. Anywhere else is work. For me, that’s work. All I have to do is work here. That’s the way I look at it,” DeRozan added.
While the Kings were his ultimate destination, DeRozan added that the Miami Heat, Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers and Lakers had expressed interest in signing him this summer.
“I was just looking for an opportunity to win at a high level, wherever that might be…[Sacramento] “They started taking an interest in the team, and they showed real interest. So when I sat down, I looked at the team and analyzed it. They’re great players. Great coach. I always remember the last two years where I always saw them shine and win,” DeRozan added.
The full interview, presented by Wave Sports + Entertainment, is available below:
DeRozan will be in Toronto this week to promote his new memoir, available today.
The event will take place on Friday, September 13th at 7pm (doors at 6pm) at Chapters Indigo in the lobby of The Well, located at 8 Spadina Avenue.
“As a mental health advocate, DeMar shares his story of struggle, strength, and ultimately, success,” the event description reads.
Tickets for the event are $59.99 and include a signed copy of the book, published by HarperCollins.
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