Three years ago, NBA star DeMar DeRozan agreed to a sign-and-trade deal that landed him with the Chicago Bulls. Now, at age 33, DeRozan is set to enter free agency with a keen sense of patience and an array of potential suitors lining up for his services.
DeRozan's journey from the San Antonio Spurs, where he earned $27.7 million in his final season, to the Bulls has been financially rewarding. He signed an $81.9 million contract over three years with Chicago, a deal that is now concluding. As free agency looms, DeRozan is poised to explore his options meticulously.
Heavy Interest Across the League
The Miami Heat have shown significant interest in DeRozan. According to Barry Jackson, "The Heat are expected to follow up with DeRozan," suggesting Miami may be making a concerted effort to acquire the veteran wing. The Heat are known for their aggressive moves in the market, and adding DeRozan to their roster could be a game-changer for the franchise.
The Los Angeles Lakers are also in the mix. Jovan Buha notes, "The Lakers are making some kind of play for DeRozan." With their payroll projected just above the second apron of $188.9 million after re-signing LeBron James, the Lakers will need to be creative to make room for DeRozan.
Other teams with salary cap flexibility, such as the Detroit Pistons and the Utah Jazz, have the space to make competitive offers. While the Pistons look to rebuild and add veteran leadership, the Jazz may focus on retaining their talent, possibly renegotiating and extending Lauri Markkanen's contract in August. The depth and flexibility of these teams make them intriguing destinations for DeRozan.
Trade Scenarios and Dark Horses
Additionally, trade exceptions can be significant in the pursuit of DeRozan. The Atlanta Hawks hold a trade exception of $25 million, while the Brooklyn Nets have one worth $23 million. Both teams could potentially use these exceptions to facilitate a move for DeRozan, broadening his market even further.
The Sacramento Kings have emerged as a surprising candidate in the DeRozan sweepstakes. Marc Spears has termed the Kings a "dark horse to get DeRozan," as they look to leverage their assets and potentially engage in talks with the Bulls, who have shown interest in Kings wing Kevin Huerter.
Strategic Patience
One aspect that has characterized DeRozan's free agency approach is his willingness to wait. Chris Haynes reports that "DeRozan is willing to be 'very patient' this time around." This patience underscores DeRozan's strategy to find the best fit both financially and competitively.
Adrian Wojnarowski echoed this sentiment, stating, "DeRozan will not be 'left out there in the marketplace.'" Such confidence suggests that DeRozan's camp is prepared to play the long game, ensuring that his next move benefits his career trajectory.
Financial Considerations
A potential sign-and-trade deal for DeRozan would need to span a minimum of three years, with only the first year fully guaranteed. This structure offers teams flexibility while providing DeRozan with some security. However, it’s important to note that DeRozan will not consider signing for the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, currently standing at $12.9 million. DeRozan's market value and the interest he commands ensure that he remains out of midlevel exception discussions.
As DeRozan navigates his next steps, the NBA landscape awaits one of the most anticipated free agency decisions of the offseason. With multiple teams eyeing his signature and DeRozan’s meticulous approach, the outcome will significantly impact whichever franchise he eventually chooses.