Lowry at least still competes out there when his shot isn't falling. Derozan just gives up on playing defense/battling for rebounds. This game illustrates the differences between the players perfectly. Neither player shot well but Lowry still had 9 assists, 7 rebounds and 4 steals. Derozan with 3 rebounds and 0 assists.
I truly believe that if Derozan doesn't play at all, this team would do better.
I don't think there's any question the Raptors play cohesive as a 5 man unit without him.... Guys look for the best shot like you're supposed to, rather then trying to isolate and go 1on1 all day.
Derozan has no assists because he plays with his head down. He's not looking to make a play or ensure a score, he's trying to isolate and take his man off the bounce. He's not a very smart player, his handles are trash, and he's not a very good jump shooter outside of short range. We've known this for a while now but I guess he did well playing within his limitations until now? He's been this bad before, just not for 12 straight games now or whatever it is.
Casey being severely out coached too. Letting the opposing coach (whose team was losing at the time) dictate your line up? Embarrassing. Our half court offense is less sophisticated then that of a middle school. Embarrassing.
Went on a few runs grinding the ball inside and getting buckets in the paint, so resort back to jump shots when the games on the line - that makes perfect sense... Final play of regulation - he didn't have much drawn up other then get it to Ross. Problem is, almost everyone knew it would be Ross and he was covered... No backup plan, no forward cutting if Ross can't shake his man. CoJo did well to get a decent look. Not ideal but I don't hate it. Problem is lack of direction.... Last play of the game with a chance to take a commanding 3-1 lead and look what happens.
Also, Derozan is hurting the team. Casey needs to decide what's more important; the playoffs or Demar's feelings?
