Billy Donovan lauds DeMar DeRozan for carrying the Chicago Bulls through another difficult season

"I just appreciate the workload that he’s had to handle. Because it's not only the workload, it’s also a leadership role."

© Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

After falling short of the NBA Playoffs last year, the Chicago Bulls are on track to make it to the Play-In Tournament again. Veteran wingman DeMar DeRozan has a lot to do with that. 

While his scoring and efficiency have gone down, he has helped carry the load for a Bulls squad ravaged by injuries to numerous rotation guys, including All-Star guard Zach LaVine and promising forward Patrick Williams, who has had their seasons cut short due to foot surgeries.

Already 34 years old, DeRozan continues to deliver the goods, leading the NBA in minutes played per game at 37.8 and second to teammate Coby White in total minutes played. All these aren’t lost on Bulls coach Billy Donovan, who recently paid tribute to the six-time All-Star.

Old-school approach to the game

In an era marred by load management to star players, DeRozan is a legit throwback to the old-school approach of playing through pain and fatigue. He has only missed two games this season and has played over 70 games in each of the last two seasons in the Windy City.

“I respect where he comes from. He’s kind of an old-school mentality. Line up and play. ‘I did it my whole life. I love the game. I want to be out there as much as I can,’” Donovan said.

“What he’s been able to do and how he’s gone about doing it, in every facet, whether it’s communicating with the guys, being the same guy every day. Whatever I need from him, I go to him and communicate, and he does whatever you ask him to do. I appreciate the workload that he’s had to handle.”

2️⃣3️⃣,0️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ career points!

DeMar DeRozan becomes the 6th active player (35th in NBA history) to join the 23K points club.

(LeBron, KD, Harden, Westbrook, Steph) pic.twitter.com/bsuvBLU6Yb

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 2, 2024

A leader on and off the floor

Apart from his on-court contributions, Deebo has also been a rock off it. A sage presence in the locker room, he has mentored younger players and is an example of professionalism for the entire team.

“It’s not only the workload for him. It’s also the leadership role. It’s a veteran position where guys look up to him. With a lot of younger players, he’s very willing with his time and energy to give it to them. He never complains about anything. He looks at everything as a challenge. And I respect that,” Donovan remarked.

DeMar warming up in USC Kobes #FightOn✌️#BullsKicks | @DeMar_DeRozan pic.twitter.com/QLmBco0720

— Chicago Bulls (@chicagobulls) March 2, 2024

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