DeMar DeRozan is reportedly considering joining the Miami Heat or the Los Angeles Lakers, but both teams face significant challenges in making the trade happen.
In the past few days, the NBA has seen a flurry of activity. As of Sunday night, free agents could start negotiating contracts for the upcoming season. Many star players, including Paul George, Klay Thompson, and Chris Paul, have already secured new deals. However, DeMar DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, remains a notable exception.
DeRozan is widely regarded as the top player still available in NBA free agency, attracting interest from several teams. Among the most serious contenders are the Miami Heat and the Los Angeles Lakers. Reports on Tuesday indicated that both teams are among DeRozan’s preferred destinations.
According to the Miami Herald, the Heat are keen on acquiring DeRozan, and sources suggest that the interest is mutual. NBC Sports Chicago also reported that the Heat are open to a potential sign-and-trade deal to bring DeRozan, a Compton native, to Miami. However, both teams face a significant obstacle in making the trade a reality.
Neither the Heat nor the Lakers have the financial flexibility to meet DeRozan’s salary expectations in free agency, meaning he would need to accept a substantial pay cut to join either team. The Miami Heat can offer only the $5.2 million taxpayer mid-level exception and would need to orchestrate a trade to add DeRozan. It’s uncertain if the Chicago Bulls would be interested in a player like Tyler Herro, who would likely be a part of any trade package.
The Los Angeles Lakers, on the other hand, could offer DeRozan the $12.8 million non-taxpayer mid-level exception, allowing him to become an unrestricted free agent next offseason. Last season, DeRozan earned $28.6 million and is seeking a similar or higher salary this summer. A trade involving a player such as Austin Reaves could also be a potential path for DeRozan to join the Lakers.
As negotiations continue, both the Heat and the Lakers will need to navigate these financial hurdles if they hope to add DeRozan to their rosters for the upcoming season.
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