Four Potential Landing Spots for DeMar DeRozan – CrownHoops
DeMar DeRozan is entering free agency this offseason, and will likely have some interest around the league. I would be surprised if he returns to the San Antonio Spurs; as it looks like they are heading for a rebuild and Derozan wants to win now. Last year, DeRozan played 61 games averaging 21.6 points, 6.9 assists, and 4.2 rebounds; DeRozan shot 49.5 percent from the field, and 25.7 percent from three. Numerous teams would love to have DeRozan’s mid-range game when it comes down to the final stretch. Also, his leadership and experience in big games would be a good get for some playoff teams.
Now, reports are surfacing that the All-Star has an interest in teaming up with LeBron James in Los Angeles. This would give the Lakers a foursome of LeBron, DeRozan, Anthony Davis, and newly acquired, Russell Westbrook. As of right now, these are just rumors. Not to mention, the NBA free agency is a wild time as we have seen the unexpected happen multiple times within the past several years. Players commit, but then change their minds, reporters make a report that the player then refutes, and so on and so forth. With that being said, here are some potential landing spots for DeMar Derozan.
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat could open come cap room on their roster by choosing not to re-sign Victor Oladipo. Plus, Miami could decide to decline team options on Andre Iguodala and Goran Dragić. DeRozan could give them a solid third option behind Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. The addition of DeRozan could make Miami a very interesting team in the East next year.
New York Knicks
The New York Knicks have about $70 million cap space this year; which would be enough money to sign DeRozan and some other contributors. Being the fourth seed in the East came as a surprise to a ton of people in the NBA. The Knicks were very solid on defense last season, but lacked offensive consistency. DeRozan would immediately give them some offensive firepower to go along with Julius Randle.
Chicago Bulls
The Chicago Bulls had a disappointing end to last season falling just short of the play-in tournament. With the acquisition of Nikola Vučević and budding superstar Zach LaVine, there is not much room in terms of cap. However, getting DeRozan could be a huge get as it would give Chicago a solid score opposite of LaVine. DeRozan would likely have to take a small pay cut, but Chicago’s roster would be very competitive with Derozan on it.
Dallas Mavericks
The Dallas Mavericks are desperate to get Luka Dončić some help. Being able to sign Derozan would give Dallas a very solid number scoring option. DeRozan’s mid-range ability would give Dallas another lethal scoring option to pair with their young superstar. He may have to take a pay cut to play in Dallas, but DeRozan and Luka would be an exciting duo to watch.
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