The Chicago Bulls have enjoyed a turnaround season compared to recent seasons. Led by the veteran leadership of DeMar DeRozan along with a star cast that includes the likes of Zach Lavine, Lonzo Ball, Alex Caruso, and Nikola Vucevic, the Bulls are seated 2nd in the Eastern Conference with a 29-17 record. And to make matters better, DeRozan has been having his best season yet, since leaving the Raptors in 2018. Many have even considered him as the MVP of the league so far.

In light of his exemplary performances this season, DeRozan sat down with Taylor Rooks from Bleacher Report to speak about MVP mentality and what the MVP means to him.

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DeMar DeRozan’s MVP Mentality

When asked if he was the MVP despite plenty of games left this season, DeRozan gave a fitting reply saying that he came into the season with an MVP mindset.

“Me the MVP? Yeah, I came into this season thinking I was the MVP. You know that’s just my mentality, not in a selfish manner, but just knowing the work that I put in. And not just for myself, as well for my team,” said DeRozan.

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“You know my team’s overcome so much so quick and it sucks that we dealing with so many injuries off late, but the team we have pushed me and allowed me to be the player I knew I was,” he explained.

“And my own mentality coming into this season felt like I was the best player you know. Dealing with so much doubt, so much criticism, for whatever reason you know, I had that mentality coming in sayin’ I’mma be the best me. And whatever comes with that, whether it is MVP, King of the mid-range, whatever, I’m just gonna take it,” he added.

Furthermore, DeRozan spoke about what the MVP is for him saying that it meant setting up a culture of winning for the team and organization, being a leader, and dealing with adversity with a cool mind. He even took the example of Chris Paul – who carries with him a winning culture wherever he goes.

DeMar DeRozan this Season

Since leaving Toronto as part of a trade for Kawhi Leonard, DeRozan has not enjoyed much success. This season with the Bulls however, might be his best chance and winning the title. So far, he has scored 1105 points for the Bulls. This coupled with the points created by his assists contributes to 32.6% of all the points scored by the Bulls this season.

Moreover, the name ‘King of the mid-range’ does seem apt for the man as he shoots nearly 50% from mid-range. Clearly, DeRozan has taken the league by storm and is showing his leadership as hopes for Bulls’ fans seem to rise. With the aspirations of a championship, only till will tell answer the fate of Chicago.

Do you think DeRozan will win the MVP award this season? Let us know in the comments below.

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