The Toronto Raptors had a roller coaster ride last season. They started their season strong, but only to be eliminated in the first round by the Washington Wizards.

Although depth is considered as an issue, some fans are looking at DeMar DeRozan to carry this team as he is branded as the face of the franchise.

DeRozan, has come a long way to become who is today. According to Matt Shantz of Raptors Republic, when he entered the league, he was a raw athletic prospect but now, he can be considered as a bonafide star.

"What has defined DeRozan's career to date hasn't been his limitations, but rather his work ethic," Shantz wrote. "DeMar has entered each season of his career having added to his skillset. He has extended his range, learned to draw fouls at a near league leading level, turned his handle from a liability into a significant weapon, learned what to do when being sent a double team, and has even become one of the better help defenders on the roster."

For Shantz, work ethic is one of the most immeasurable characteristic of an NBA player, while it is also the key to succeed in the future. DeRozan, for him, has plenty of that.

"Work ethic is an underappreciated ability due to the simple fact that it is impossible to measure," Shantz added. "We don't have stats to back up what we read, and we don't even have a firsthand eye test because we don't get to see the work that is put in outside of game situations."

Heading into the seventh year of his career, DeRozan is not stopping on improving his game and for him, shooting is his next priority.

"Extending my range," DeRozan told Law Murray of Drew League when asked what he is improving the most. "Just doing everything I do midrange, do the same thing out further. Three-point line and beyond. Getting comfortable with that, extending that range and becoming more deadly."