Knicks Rumors: Pros And Cons Of Pursuing DeMar DeRozan

Pro: Entering His Prime

DeMar DeRozan is a two-time All-Star who has averaged in excess of 20 points per game in three consecutive seasons. He’s been erratic in the postseason, but was able to overcome his inconsistencies to lead the Toronto Raptors to the 2016 Eastern Conference Finals.

DeRozan continues to improve in a myriad of ways, and that’s unlikely to change anytime soon; at 26 years old, he’s just now entering his prime.

A player’s prime years are generally slated between the ages of 27 and 32—the time when a player’s athleticism and skill level tend to catch up with one another. This comes from both gained NBA experience and physical maturation.

DeRozan is just now entering that window with his 27th birthday coming up in August.

Signing DeRozan will require a long-term commitment, but he’s actually one of the safer players to invest in. He’s not a 30-year-old free agent, but instead a young player whose prime years would coincide with the contract he signs.

It’s odd to use the word, “Upside,” with a veteran, but DeRozan still has room to grow and a game that can be molded by brilliant basketball minds—minds like those belonging to Jeff Hornacek and Phil Jackson.

must read: What would the pros and cons be of signing Rajon Rondo?

DeRozan is one of the most polarizing prospects in the 2016 class of free agents, but New York would be foolish to not, at the very least, do its homework on a two-time All-Star just entering his prime.