NBA Player Power Rankings: Change of the Guard

Mar 16, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins (15) steals the ball from New Orleans Pelicans forward Anthony Davis (23) during the third quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Pelicans defeated the Kings 123-108. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 14, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard DeMar DeRozan (10) goes to the basket and scores past Chicago Bulls forward Nikola Mirotic (44) and forward Tony Snell (20) at Air Canada Centre. The Bulls beat the Raptors 109-107. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports /

17. DeMar DeRozan, Toronto Raptors

Last Rank: No. 17

Position: Shooting Guard

Age: 26

Slash Line: .447/.328/.844

Season Averages: 36.2 MPG, 23.8 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 3.9 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.6 3PM

DeMar DeRozan may never have the versatility of a Dwyane Wade or the shooting touch of a Jerry West, but he’s made tremendous strides since 2014-15. He’s putting his elite physical profile to good use by driving with authority, thus leading the Toronto Raptors in scoring average.

DeRozan still has his flaws, but he’s one of the best scorers in the NBA, and that cannot be understated.

DeRozan is averaging just shy of 24 points per game on a field goal percentage that flirts with .450. He’s also become a respectable threat from beyond the arc, as well as a quality team defender.

At 26 years old, the explosive scoring guard is finally discovering what works for him—a sign that whichever team he signs with in free agency will improve greatly.

DeRozan is No. 1 in the NBA in points via drives per game, and that’s something to keep an eye on in the long-haul. He’s easy to regard as a player with a need to improve his all-around game, but the off-guard is far better than he used to be.

DeRozan deserves to be ranked in the Top 20.

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