Three years ago, DeMar DeRozan's career took a pivotal turn when he agreed to a sign-and-trade deal, moving from the San Antonio Spurs to the Chicago Bulls. This shift not only adjusted his career trajectory but also had significant financial implications. In his final season with the Spurs, DeRozan pocketed $27.7 million, marking a lucrative chapter that only got better with his subsequent $81.9 million contract over three years with the Bulls.
As DeRozan's contract with the Bulls now draws to a close, speculation about his next move has reached a fever pitch. DeRozan, who is currently 33 years old, has several teams vying for his talents. Among those showing interest are the Miami Heat, buoyed by journalist Barry Jackson's expectation that they will "follow up with DeRozan."
Lakers Making a Move
Jovan Buha has indicated that the Lakers are "making some kind of play for DeRozan." The Lakers' projected payroll is already a hefty sum, hovering just above the second apron of $188.9 million, especially after re-signing LeBron James. Integrating DeRozan into this high-stakes financial landscape will be a task that the Lakers' front office must navigate with precision and creativity.
Cap Space and Competitive Offers
Other teams with the cap space to make compelling offers include the Detroit Pistons and the Utah Jazz. However, the Jazz might allocate their financial resources differently, possibly using their cap space to renegotiate and extend Lauri Markkanen's contract in August. Such a move could alter their ability to make a competitive bid for DeRozan.
Additionally, the Atlanta Hawks and the Brooklyn Nets have trade exceptions of $25 million and $23 million, respectively. These exceptions allow them to absorb DeRozan's salary without breaching the salary cap, making them intriguing options for potential sign-and-trade deals.
DeRozan's Strategy in Free Agency
Chris Haynes has reported that DeRozan is willing to be "very patient" this time around in free agency. This strategic patience highlights a veteran player who understands his market value and is prepared to wait for the right opportunity. ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski supports this sentiment, indicating that "DeRozan will not be 'left out there in the marketplace.'"
One stipulation in negotiations is that any sign-and-trade deal for DeRozan must span a minimum of three years, with only the first year fully guaranteed. This requirement ensures financial security for DeRozan while offering teams some flexibility. Importantly, DeRozan will not consider signing for the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, currently at $12.9 million, underscoring his high market value and the premium he places on securing a lucrative contract.
Dark Horse and Potential Trades
Among the more surprising contenders for DeRozan's services are the Sacramento Kings. Marc Spears has characterized the Kings as a "dark horse to get DeRozan," a potential game-changer for a team looking to make a splash. Adding intrigue to this potential move is the Bulls' demonstrated interest in Kings wing Kevin Huerter, suggesting that both teams might find a mutually beneficial trade scenario.
As the free agency period looms, DeRozan's future remains one of the most captivating storylines in the NBA. His value, experience, and skill set make him a coveted asset for any team looking to bolster its roster. Fans and analysts alike will be keenly watching to see which franchise ultimately secures his talents for the upcoming seasons.