Three years ago, DeMar DeRozan's journey led him to the Windy City through a sign-and-trade deal that brought him to the Chicago Bulls. In his final season with the San Antonio Spurs, DeRozan earned a commendable $27.7 million. He then committed to an $81.9 million contract over three years with the Bulls, a partnership that is now drawing to a close.
At 33 years old, DeRozan remains a highly sought-after talent in the NBA. As his contract with the Bulls concludes, several teams are poised to make a play for the veteran swingman. According to Jovan Buha, "The Lakers are making some kind of play for DeRozan." With their projected payroll just above the second apron of $188.9 million after re-signing LeBron James, the Lakers are maneuvering to enhance their roster further.
Another team expressing interest is the Miami Heat. Barry Jackson reported, "The Heat are expected to follow up with DeRozan," signaling that the Heat are keen on adding his experience and scoring ability to their lineup. Meanwhile, both the Detroit Pistons and the Utah Jazz have the financial flexibility to make competitive offers. The Jazz, however, may also choose to use their cap space to renegotiate and extend Lauri Markkanen's contract in August.
The Atlanta Hawks and the Brooklyn Nets also have significant trade exceptions—$25 million and $23 million, respectively—that could come into play in a potential deal for DeRozan. These trade exceptions provide both teams with strategic flexibility, allowing them to engage in transactions without exceeding their salary cap limitations significantly.
DeRozan's approach to this free agency period is markedly different from previous experiences. As Chris Haynes notes, "DeRozan is willing to be 'very patient' this time around," indicating he plans to carefully evaluate his options. Echoing this sentiment, Adrian Wojnarowski stated, "DeRozan will not be 'left out there in the marketplace.'" This patience underscores DeRozan's confidence in his market value and the belief that a suitable offer will materialize.
One crucial detail for teams looking to secure DeRozan's services via a sign-and-trade deal is the requirement for the deal to span a minimum of three years, with only the first year fully guaranteed. Furthermore, DeRozan has made it clear that he will not consider signing for the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, which currently stands at $12.9 million. This stipulation ensures that only serious contenders with the appropriate cap space or trade assets will be in the running to sign him.
DeRozan's market dynamics are further complicated by the potential interest from lesser-expected suitors. According to Marc Spears, "The Kings as a 'dark horse to get DeRozan.'" The Sacramento Kings' interest adds an intriguing wrinkle to the narrative, especially given the Bulls' interest in Kings wing Kevin Huerter. This mutual interest could pave the way for a complex trade scenario involving multiple teams and assets.
As the offseason progresses, DeRozan's next destination remains a significant talking point among NBA circles. His ability to score, facilitate, and provide veteran leadership makes him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their championship aspirations or add a seasoned player to guide younger rosters.
The forthcoming weeks promise to be crucial as teams position themselves strategically to secure DeRozan's signature. Whether he lands with a perennial contender like the Lakers or Heat, or takes on a new challenge with a team like the Kings or Jazz, DeRozan's next chapter will be eagerly watched by fans and analysts alike. His patience, combined with a keen understanding of his market value, places him in an advantageous position as one of the most compelling free agents this offseason.