Even though not everybody believed the fit between DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine would work in Chicago, the Bulls rank 3rd in the Eastern Conference standings right now, surprising a lot of people with their entertaining style of play.
DeRozan has become a key figure for the 6x NBA champions, leading them to an 11-5 record in the East alongside LaVine, Lonzo Ball, and Alex Caruso. The veteran swingman is making a statement this campaign, showing he’s not washed and is capable of leading a well-rounded squad to compete.
Somehow, DeMar’s contributions have been overlooked, but JJ Redick made sure to let people know this man is the real deal. Talking with Tommy Alter, the newly retired shooting guard discussed the current MVP race, putting Stephen Curry and Kevin Durant atop everybody, but naming DeRozan among those who should get consideration, too (1:55).
“You could make an argument that as of right now, DeMar DeRozan is third in the MVP race. He didn’t play great against Portland, the Bulls lost, Steph went crazy in Brooklyn. These things are constantly changing. My point was, he has to have at least some consideration at this point this season for top 5 in the MVP.”
He then mentioned other players like Nikola Jokic and Paul George. He doubled down on his comments, putting KD and Curry on the top tier, but claiming that three more players were hunting the former Golden State Warriors duo for the coveted award.
“I think it’s Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry. The next tier of guys, in terms of who’s playing great basketball right now is Paul George, DeMar DeRozan and Nikola Jokic.”
DeRozan couldn’t get it done in Toronto, mostly thanks to LeBron James’ dominance in the East. He then landed in San Antonio, playing in a weakened team that couldn’t do a lot in the stacked West.
Now the East is extremely competitive again, but DeMar has a good squad that can shock everybody in next year’s playoffs. It’s time to start paying attention to this Bulls squad. They can do a lot of damage if Billy Donovan can keep the pace. Depending on how things end next year, we could be talking about DeRozan taking home his first MVP award.
