Drake and DeMar DeRozan’s relationship once symbolized the bond between the Toronto Raptors and their dedicated fans. Both icons of the Toronto scene, they supported each other publicly, shared the same pride for the city, and represented Toronto’s culture with intensity and loyalty. But things have changed. Rumors of a feud between Drake and DeRozan have recently surfaced, leading fans to wonder—what happened to their once-tight friendship?
Here’s a breakdown of the shocking move that reportedly ignited the tension and what this rift means for both Drake and DeRozan.
The Close Bond That Once Was
Drake, Toronto’s unofficial ambassador, has always been vocal about his loyalty to the Raptors, often sitting courtside at games and actively promoting the team’s culture through his music and brand. DeRozan, a four-time NBA All-Star who played nine seasons with the Raptors, became a beloved figure in Toronto, embodying the team’s grit and determination. The two developed a visible friendship, with Drake often publicly supporting DeRozan’s achievements and DeRozan showing gratitude for Drake’s devotion to the team.
The Trade That Changed It All
In the summer of 2018, everything shifted. The Raptors traded DeRozan to the San Antonio Spurs in a blockbuster deal that brought Kawhi Leonard to Toronto. While the trade eventually led the Raptors to their first-ever NBA championship, it deeply hurt DeRozan, who had always expressed his desire to remain a Raptor for life. The shock and betrayal he felt after the trade was evident, especially since he had been loyal to the franchise through ups and downs.
Drake’s Shocking Move: Befriending Kawhi Leonard
After DeRozan’s departure, Drake quickly welcomed Leonard to the Raptors with open arms. He courted Leonard in Toronto, publicly praised his skills, and encouraged fans to support him. Although Drake’s intentions may have been team-driven, DeRozan reportedly felt that Drake’s overt support of Leonard was a betrayal, considering their close relationship and the pain he felt from the trade.
While publicly supporting Leonard might seem harmless, DeRozan took it personally. He felt that Drake’s actions trivialized the years of dedication he had given to the Raptors and the bond they had built. Many insiders reported that Drake’s decision to cozy up to Leonard, and his lack of acknowledgment toward DeRozan’s feelings, left DeRozan feeling hurt and sidelined.
Social Media Subtleties and Public Tensions
Following the trade, fans noticed that DeRozan and Drake were no longer as friendly on social media. The subtle shift in their interactions—or lack thereof—added fuel to the rumors. Gone were the friendly banter and public shout-outs, replaced by a strained silence that spoke volumes to fans and analysts alike.
In interviews, DeRozan has subtly referenced feeling betrayed, though he has avoided mentioning Drake directly. He’s expressed his disappointment in how quickly Toronto moved on from him and, by extension, how some friends in the city followed suit.
What the Feud Means for Both Drake and DeRozan
For DeRozan, the rift marks a painful reminder of his departure from Toronto and how the loyalty he felt wasn’t reciprocated. Despite his successes with his current team, the wound of leaving Toronto—a city he once thought of as a second home—still runs deep.
For Drake, the strained relationship with DeRozan poses a challenge to his standing as Toronto’s cultural ambassador. While he remains loyal to the Raptors, fans may perceive his quick shift in allegiance from DeRozan to Leonard as a reminder of how fleeting loyalty can be in the world of sports and celebrity.
Can They Reconcile?
As time has passed, both DeRozan and Drake have moved on to some extent. However, fans still hope for a reconciliation between the two, who once shared a unique bond. Drake could publicly acknowledge the sacrifices DeRozan made for the Raptors and offer a gesture of friendship, but whether or not this would be enough to mend fences remains uncertain.
Until then, the DeRozan-Drake feud stands as a poignant example of the complexities of loyalty, fame, and friendship in the ever-shifting world of sports and entertainment. While the two may never return to their former camaraderie, their story will always be a part of the Toronto Raptors’ history—a reminder of the highs, lows, and hidden tensions that lie beneath the surface of public life.
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