One big question mark for the Chicago Bulls as the trade deadline nears and summer follows soon after is DeMar DeRozan’s expired contract. He’ll hit unrestricted free agency after the 2023 season concludes, and with the two sides reportedly “far apart” amid extension conversations, he could be looking for a new home. Despite reports leaning toward his departure from the Windy City, DeRozan recently offered his point of view, which may bring a fresh perspective to the unfolding situation.
“I Love It Here”
DeMar DeRozan’s love for Chicago has only grown since his initial arrival. His last three years have been the second-highest scoring average over three years in his career, only trailing the 2015-17 stretch in Toronto. He also earned an All-Star starting nod in his first year with the Bulls and another All-Star nomination last year. DeRozan’s second All-NBA nomination also came in Chicago, his other one coming in 2018. He quickly became a fan favorite, and the chemistry was mutual for DeRozan’s camp.
Losing DeRozan would leave a scoring and playmaking dent in Chicago’s lineup. It would also leave a void in the leadership department, fourth-quarter scoring, and the go-to playmaker down the stretch of close games. He’s been Chicago’s closer since hitting several game-winning buckets in 2021, including back-to-back buzzer-beaters in that inaugural season with the Bulls. In his age 34 season and likely seeking north of $30 million annually, it doesn’t make much sense for a team on the verge of a rebuild to bring back their veteran presence at this steep cost.
Getting Value Before His Departure
It’s great to hear that DeRozan “loves” Chicago and hasn’t envisioned himself anywhere else, but barring a hometown discount or a surprise move by Arturas Karnisovas in the front office, he’ll likely be gone this summer without an agreement reached. Being the most likely scenario, Chicago must pounce on the opportunity to extract some value from their six-time All-Star forward before he’s gone without return. Playoff fringe teams and championship contenders are often buyers at the trade deadline, looking for veteran forwards, clutch shot-makers, and additional star power.
DeRozan has vocalized that one of his career goals is to make at least one push for a championship ring, and his camp has specified the New York Knicks and Miami Heat as his preferred destinations. The Knicks and Heat have made several playoff runs in the past few years, including an Eastern Conference title for Miami in the 2022-23′ campaign.
DeRozan is a one-year rental requiring a lucrative payday this summer, so his price tag is likely lower than anticipated. Future draft capital or a core starting player could be expected in return for his services. Hoping for a young player with established talent is a stretch. Grabbing RJ Barrett or R.J. Hampton and future draft stock would be the best-case scenario for the Bulls.
