As the NBA free agency period approaches, DeMar DeRozan’s future with the Chicago Bulls is hanging in the air. DeRozan is now an unrestricted free agent after signing a three-year, $85 million contract with the Bulls in August 2021. According to NBA insider K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago, there is “growing buzz” that DeRozan could part ways with the Bulls this offseason.
While there is still a possibility that both sides could hit the headlines with a new contract before the start of free agency on Sunday night, the chances of that happening are diminishing daily.
During the 2023–24 season, DeRozan played in 79 games for the Bulls, averaging 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 1.1 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game. He shot 48.0% from the field, 33.3% from beyond the arc, and 85.3% from the free-throw line. His consistent performance made him a key player for the team, yet Chicago’s recent moves suggest a shift in focus.
After missing the playoffs this year, the Bulls appear to be prioritizing a youth movement in 2025. This transition began with last week’s trade of Alex Caruso for Josh Giddey. Another example of this strategy came with their selection of Matas Buzelis as the 11th pick in the first round of the 2024 NBA Draft.
Clippers Could Target the Chicago Bulls’ DeMar DeRozan if Paul George Departs
K.C. Johnson also revealed that the Los Angeles Clippers could pursue Chicago Bulls star DeMar DeRozan if they lose Paul George.
“Keep the Clippers in mind as a potential DeMar DeRozan destination if Paul George signs elsewhere,” he wrote on his X account.
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Paul George, like DeRozan, can become a free agent. His decision hinges on whether he will exercise his $48.8 million player option for the 2024–25 season. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently suggested a trade involving George could happen this weekend.
For the Clippers and their fans, George’s decision will be highly significant. Last season, he averaged 22.6 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.5 assists.
