Three years ago, DeMar DeRozan took a significant step in his professional journey by agreeing to a sign-and-trade deal that saw him don the Chicago Bulls jersey. This move came on the heels of his final season with the San Antonio Spurs, where he earned a notable $27.7 million. DeRozan’s venture with the Bulls involved a lucrative $81.9 million contract over three years, a deal that is now reaching its conclusion.
The Market for DeRozan
As DeRozan’s contract nears its end, the market for the talented forward is heating up. At 33 years old, DeRozan remains a highly coveted player, and various teams are expressing interest. The stakes are high, and DeRozan is fully aware of his value. According to Chris Haynes, DeRozan is willing to be "very patient" in free agency this time around. Adrian Wojnarowski also assures that DeRozan will not be "left out there in the marketplace."
The Los Angeles Lakers, with a projected payroll just above the second apron of $188.9 million after re-signing LeBron James, are reportedly making efforts to acquire DeRozan. Jovan Buha confirms, "The Lakers are making some kind of play for DeRozan." This suggests that the Lakers are maneuvering to fit DeRozan into their financial plans, despite their hefty payroll. However, it’s clear that any potential deal would need to be a sign-and-trade, lasting a minimum of three years with only the first year fully guaranteed.
Potential Suitors: Heat, Kings, and Cap Space Giants
Another team expressing keen interest in DeRozan is the Miami Heat. Barry Jackson reports, "The Heat are expected to follow up with DeRozan," signaling serious intent from the Florida-based team. Meanwhile, the Detroit Pistons and the Utah Jazz both possess the cap space necessary to make competitive offers. However, the Jazz might prioritize using their cap space to renegotiate and extend Lauri Markkanen's contract in August, potentially lessening their pursuit of DeRozan.
Interestingly, the Sacramento Kings have emerged as a dark horse candidate to snap up DeRozan. Marc Spears notes, "The Kings as a 'dark horse to get DeRozan,'" suggesting that the Kings are strongly contemplating adding DeRozan to their roster. In a related development, the Bulls have shown interest in Kings wing Kevin Huerter, which could facilitate a mutually beneficial arrangement between the two teams.
Trade Exceptions and Flexibility
The Atlanta Hawks and the Brooklyn Nets also have strategic options at their disposal. The Hawks hold a $25 million trade exception, while the Nets have a $23 million trade exception. These exceptions could play a critical role in orchestrating a deal for DeRozan, providing both teams with the financial leeway to incorporate DeRozan's substantial salary into their payrolls.
DeRozan’s Next Steps
Despite the myriad of opportunities, one thing is clear: DeRozan has set his standards high. He will not consider signing for the non-taxpayer midlevel exception, which currently stands at $12.9 million. This stance underscores DeRozan’s understanding of his worth and his patience in securing a deal that aligns with his career aspirations and financial expectations.
As the free agency period unfolds, DeRozan’s market value and strategic patience will likely play crucial roles in the decisions made by interested teams. With multiple franchises eyeing his services and the negotiation chessboard set, DeRozan's next move will be a pivotal one in the 2023 NBA free agency saga.