Three Years After Trade, DeRozan's Future Remains a Hot Topic
Three years ago, DeMar DeRozan found himself wearing Chicago Bulls colors, thanks to a sign-and-trade deal that marked his departure from the San Antonio Spurs. The deal, which netted DeRozan $81.9 million over three years, is now coming to a close, and speculation about his next move is heating up across the league.
In his final season with the Spurs, DeRozan earned a substantial $27.7 million. Now at 33 years old, the veteran guard is contemplating his next destination, with several teams showing interest. Among them, the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers have emerged as notable suitors. "The Lakers are making some kind of play for DeRozan," noted Jovan Buha, while Barry Jackson reported, "The Heat are expected to follow up with DeRozan."
DeRozan's decision comes amidst a complex salary cap landscape. The Lakers, for instance, find their projected payroll just above the second apron of $188.9 million after re-signing LeBron James. Meanwhile, the Miami Heat are actively pursuing DeRozan, looking to strengthen their roster with his veteran presence and scoring ability.
Several other teams also have the financial flexibility to make compelling offers. Both the Detroit Pistons and the Utah Jazz have the cap space to engage in a bidding war for DeRozan's services. However, the Jazz might have other priorities. With an eye on August, Utah could potentially use their cap space to renegotiate and extend Lauri Markkanen's contract.
The Atlanta Hawks and Brooklyn Nets present intriguing alternatives, each armed with significant trade exceptions—$25 million for the Hawks and $23 million for the Nets—that could facilitate a move for DeRozan. Amidst this flurry of interest, Chris Haynes observes, "DeRozan is willing to be 'very patient' this time around," indicating that the player is diligently weighing his options.
Amid the high-stakes negotiations, one thing is clear: DeRozan won’t be sidelined. "DeRozan will not be 'left out there in the marketplace,'" says Adrian Wojnarowski, suggesting that the seasoned guard still holds considerable value in today's market. However, any potential sign-and-trade deal for DeRozan must adhere to specific stipulations, covering a minimum of three years with only the first year fully guaranteed. Additionally, DeRozan has made it clear he won't consider signing for the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, which currently stands at $12.9 million.
Other potential suitors are also in the mix, with the Sacramento Kings emerging as a dark horse candidate to secure DeRozan. "The Kings as a 'dark horse to get DeRozan,'" noted Marc Spears, points to an intriguing possibility for Sacramento fans. The Kings have shown interest, as evidenced by their consideration of Bulls wing Kevin Huerter.
As DeRozan navigates free agency, his decision is poised to impact multiple franchises' roster plans and salary cap strategies. For now, the basketball world watches in anticipation, aware that the dominoes will soon start to fall in this high-stakes offseason shuffling.