DeMar DeRozan has spent the last three years of his NBA career with the Chicago Bulls, which has kept him out of the NBA playoffs in the last two seasons. With NBA free agency approaching, DeRozan has the opportunity to find his way to a contender.
Chicago isn’t anywhere close to championship contention and even if everyone stays healthy next year, the Bulls don’t represent much of a threat in the Eastern Conference. With DeRozan turning 35 years old in August, this summer would seemingly present him with the opportunity to finish his career competing for a ring with another club.
- DeMar DeRozan stats: 24 PPG, 5.4 APG, 4.3 RPG, 48% FG
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A Los Angeles native, DeRozan has been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers for years and he was floated in NBA trade rumors heavily this past season. With the decision now in his control, there’s a growing belief around the league regarding where DeRozan will sign.
According to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype, most around the league expect DeRozan to re-sign with the Bulls. Chicago still desires to compete with the All-Star forward and most importantly, the franchise is willing to pay him this summer.
- DeMar DeRozan career earnings: $257.609 million
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There’s certainly a lot of money potentially on the table from Chicago. The Bulls can offer him a three-year deal worth $130 million, which would make him one of the highest-paid NBA players.
The Bulls’ intentions of competing haven’t gone well in recent years, but the money they are offering and the comfort of staying in Chicago seem likely to sway DeRozan’s decision. If he does re-sign, the pool of NBA free agents in 2024 will shrink even more.
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