DeMar DeRozan has high expectations for Patrick Williams

What does a veteran NBA star like DeMar see in a young forward who’s oozing with potential?

© John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Far from being the young gun who entered the NBA at age 20, the 34 year old veteran DeMar DeRozan has come a very long way. The Chicago Bulls star has been through the gauntlet and has a fair grasp of what it takes to make it and thrive in the Association.

The seasoned vet is now in the midst of guiding young forward Patrick Williams on the path to success. In addition to mentoring the North Carolina native, DeRozan has expressed his unwavering belief in what Williams can become, even recently comparing him to the great Kawhi Leonard.

May take some time

Deebo is not one to compare players, but with Williams, he was willing to make an exception. And DeRozan didn't just compare his protege to just any other player; he likened Williams to one of the all-time greats.

"I hate comparing guys to other guys, I seldom do it, but he reminds me of Kawhi. I know that's been thrown out there, but his build, the way he moves, everything. Kawhi's one of the greatest players to play this game, and that's high praise right there. That's what I see Pat becoming," DeRozan said.

Nevertheless, Deebo acknowledged that Williams will need time and unwavering dedication for his skills to blossom.

"Williams has so many traits, and it may take one at a time for it to come together, but when it comes together, I tell him all the time, he won't lose it," DeRozan added.

Dawn workouts

Three years into his career, his teammates and fans are still waiting for Williams to make a much-awaited leap from fringe starter player to significant franchise piece. This offseason, Williams trained with DeRozan, and fellow young stud Dalen Terry in Los Angeles, joining the All-Star for his famed dawn workouts that began at 5 AM.

"You get to learn from one of the best players in the NBA, that's a no-brainer for me," Williams said when asked about the crack-of-dawn sessions.