DeMar DeRozan Rumors: Kings, Bulls Talked Sign-and-Trade amid Lakers, Heat Links
July 4, 2024
The Sacramento Kings have discussed a sign-and-trade involving DeMar DeRozan with the Chicago Bulls, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.
Jackson noted that DeRozan has "interest" in joining the Miami Heat, although the Heat are "not in position to give him what he's seeking."
Barry Jackson @flasportsbuzzHeat is trying to do something in trade market, I've been assured. (DeRozan seems too difficult at moment; other options less clear). That's why they have left themselves 7 M under 2nd apron for now. So it's not like they're sitting around playing scrabble. <a href="https://t.co/yH1XDtWOxh">https://t.co/yH1XDtWOxh</a>
The six-time All-Star is searching for a new home in free agency after spending the past three seasons with the Bulls. Jackson previously reported on Tuesday that the Los Angeles Lakers are also among the teams pursuing DeRozan.
The 34-year-old hasn't showed many signs of slowing down, as his average of 37.8 minutes each night represented the highest mark in the association during the 2023-24 season. He also recorded 24.0 points and 5.3 assists per game while shooting 48.0 percent from the field.
K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports reported on Tuesday that the Bulls are "open" to exploring a sign-and-trade involving the veteran. Johnson added that a potential deal would need to be "at least three years."
The Kings may be attempting to include Harrison Barnes or Kevin Huerter in a possible trade, as Yahoo Sports' Jake Fischer revealed on June 21 that the team is attempting to move both players.
Despite winning 94 games over the past two seasons and boasting stars such as De'Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento only has one first-round playoff appearance to show for it due to a competitive Western Conference.
While the Kings have already re-signed Malik Monk and traded for Jalen McDaniels, general manager Monte McNair could be on the lookout for an experienced scorer such as DeRozan. The California native has 63 career playoff games under his belt with three separate organizations.
Although the reported talks between Sacramento and Chicago haven't resulted in a deal yet, the two teams could engage once again if DeRozan's other possible suitors aren't as interested.