DeMar DeRozan is an older player in the NBA, having turned 34 years old. But his playing time with the Chicago Bulls doesn’t seem to support that. DeRozan is one of the team’s best players and one of the Bulls’ leaders. He is also one of the important players that is now injury-free. He has been playing a lot for Chicago this season as a result.
DeMar DeRozan is averaging 37.9 minutes per game with the Bulls this season. Throughout his fifteen years in the NBA, he has only participated in one more season, which was ten years ago, when he averaged little over 38 minutes per game while playing for the Toronto Raptors. Bulls head coach Billy Donovan attributes DeRozan’s success to his mindset.
“I appreciate his background,” Billy Donovan told the press on Friday. “He has an antiquated way of thinking. Get in position and start playing. “I want to be out there as much as possible; I love the game, and I did it my entire life.” I understand that stuff. In my opinion, it’s great that he has that kind of mindset.
On practice and shoot-around days, we have tasks to complete with him that have taken up a lot of time—not just for him, but also for the other guys. Because of his mindset, I have a lot of respect and regard for him, but I don’t take it for granted.
The things he’s accomplished and the manner in which he’s carried them out—whether it’s interacting with the boys or being the same guy every day—or anything I’ve needed from him. Approach him and speak with him; he will carry out your requests.
I simply admire the amount of work he has had to do because, to him, it goes beyond just job; it’s a leadership role. In addition, he is a seasoned professional who is respected by men. Thus, I believe that he is quite eager to devote his time and energy to the younger players, as do many of them. He is never one to grumble about anything. He seems to view everything as a challenge, which I appreciate.
