[Saba Sports News] In a recent appearance on ESPN’s ‘First Take,’ Brian Windhorst hinted at the possibility of Chicago Bulls All-Star DeRozan becoming a trade target as the season progresses.
“Keep an eye on one player this year, league-wide: DeMar DeRozan,” Windhorst commented, as reported by RealGM. “If he doesn’t extend with the Bulls, I believe he could become a trade candidate during the season.” DeRozan, a six-time All-Star who recently turned 34, is entering his third season with the Bulls and continues to perform at a remarkably high level. He has maintained an impressive stat line of 26-5-5 during his time in Chicago and has proven his durability, having participated in 150 out of a possible 164 regular-season games for the Bulls. However, DeRozan is now in the final year of a three-year, $81.9 million contract he signed with Chicago in 2021.
This effectively makes him a $28.6 million expiring contract this season, potentially making him a highly sought-after trade asset. The Bulls have struggled to advance beyond the first round during DeRozan’s tenure and appear to be stuck as a middle-of-the-pack team in the Eastern Conference, at best.
While Chicago fans may be reluctant to see the departure of DeRozan, a humble, productive, and clutch player, it’s a possibility they may have to consider, or it could be another top Bulls star heading elsewhere.