FIBA World Cup MVP Dennis Schroder shares rare insight on his switch from Lakers to Raptors

When the news of Dennis Schröder joining the Raptors from the Lakers broke weeks ago, many NBA fans wondered what was going on with Dennis. This move to the Raptors marked his fifth team in six years for the German national.

After a successful FIBA World Cup, where he was crowned the MVP and his country went on to win the tournament, he decided to shift his focus away from the World Cup. Lately, Dennis shared insight into what propelled his decision to join the Toronto Raptors barely a year after joining the Lakers.   

Dennis Schroder talks on his move to Raptors

Dennis Schroder left the Lakers in July and accepted a $26 million, two-year contract with the Raptors. This decision was made just before Schröder’s time playing for Germany and being coached by Rajakovic at the FIBA Basketball World Cup. Schröder mentioned that his history with Rajakovic was the main reason for him leaving the Lakers to join Toronto.

In an interview with ESPN’s NBA, Dennis said, “I think Darko [Rajakovic], the head coach. I met him five years ago in OKC. He called me right away when he took over and I said to my agent that I wanted to be there, I wanted to be a part of that. I think it’s a great fit, play like in the national team: handling the ball a little bit more, go out and run.”

If he replicates the form that made him outshine all NBA superstars at the 2023 FIBA World Cup, that means the Toronto Raptors have made a really good deal and will have him delivering dazzling performances week in and week out to their fans.

Dennis Schroder receives warm welcome in Germany after becoming World Champion

Schroder, after leading Germany to its first-ever FIBA World Cup title, received a warm welcome in his home country. His incredible performance in the FIBA World Cup, including a historic upset victory against the United States in the semifinals, made him a national icon.

In the FIBA Final matchup against Serbia, the 29-year-old was outstanding, scoring a total of 28 points on 9-of-17 shooting. Two days after his clutch step-back jumper sealed an important victory against the United States, Schroder’s five points in the final minute sealed the 83-77 triumph. He received the TISOT MVP award as compensation for his efforts.

The 2013 first-round NBA Draft selection has quite a number of fans, and that is because of the way he plays with passion. Although Dennis Schroder is not the most effective offensive player, he consistently contributes a lot of energy to any club he plays for. At the 2023 FIBA World Cup, Germany benefited greatly from this particular trait.