Reignited Rivalry: DeRozan and Drake Clash Over Raptors Banner Dispute
The Toronto Raptors' recent decision to hang a banner honoring their 2019 NBA championship without including DeMar DeRozan has ignited a fresh round of controversy between the former franchise star and the team's current global ambassador, Drake.
The Banner Controversy
In October 2022, the Raptors unveiled a banner at Scotiabank Arena celebrating their 2019 victory. The banner featured the names of all players on the championship team, excluding DeRozan, who had been traded to the San Antonio Spurs in 2018.
DeRozan's Response
DeRozan expressed his disappointment with the decision, stating that he felt he had earned the right to be recognized for his contributions to the team's success. He also questioned the Raptors' commitment to honoring their past players.
Drake's Involvement
Drake, who has a close relationship with the Raptors and is a frequent fixture at their games, weighed in on the controversy by posting a photo on Instagram of himself wearing a DeRozan jersey. He captioned the photo with the hashtag "#WeTheNorth," the Raptors' slogan.
Escalating Tensions
DeRozan responded to Drake's post by commenting, "I see you bro." This led to a back-and-forth on social media, with DeRozan expressing his frustration with the Raptors' decision and Drake defending the team.
Fan Reactions
The controversy has divided Raptors fans. Some believe that DeRozan should have been included on the banner, while others argue that the team has the right to honor players it deems most deserving.
Conclusion
The DeRozan-Drake clash is a reminder of the complex relationship between current and former players, fans, and the teams they represent. As the rivalry continues, it remains to be seen how it will impact the Raptors' future and the legacy of its championship team.