NBA Rumors: The 3 franchises that are very attentive to DeMar DeRozan's situation
The 36-year-old veteran player is still looking for a team, and there is talk of a possible return to the Toronto Raptors or San Antonio Spurs, while the Denver Nuggets are also part of the equation.
After a few initial weeks of the market marked by impactful trades and signings, there are still several important names without a team in the NBA. One of them is DeMar DeRozan, who was waived by the Sacramento Kings on July 6 and remains available in free agency.
At 36 years old —turning 37 this Friday—, the shooting guard continues to be a reliable scorer. Last season, he averaged 18.4 points per game with Sacramento, after posting an average of 22.2 points the previous season. Furthermore, he has shown remarkable physical consistency, playing in at least 74 games in each of the last five seasons.
Despite his illustrious career, the six-time All-Star has never reached an NBA Finals. At this stage in his career, it seems likely that he would be willing to accept a minimum salary contract to join a championship contender.
Toronto Dreams of an Idol's Return
The Toronto Raptors are one of the teams linked to DeRozan. The veteran player sparked excitement among Canadian fans earlier this week by posting a message on social media: "In closing, I remain the same. I come as I leave…"
It's worth noting that it was Toronto who selected him with the 9th pick in the 2009 Draft, starting a period during which he became one of the franchise's most beloved players.
The possibility of a return could gain traction if Kawhi Leonard ends up being suspended or even if the trade with the Los Angeles Clippers doesn’t get finalized. In that scenario, reuniting with one of their great legends would be a significant morale boost for the organization and the fans.
San Antonio Also Enters the Scene
Another one of the franchises linked with DeRozan are the San Antonio Spurs, where the forward played three seasons before leaving on good terms.
The recent NBA Finals highlighted, according to the text, the lack of veteran leadership in the Texas team, an aspect that DeRozan could help strengthen. However, the salary situation significantly complicates the deal for general manager Brian Wright.
During this summer, San Antonio has acquired Tobias Harris with a two-year, $31 million contract, in addition to renewing Harrison Barnes and backup point guard Jordan McLaughlin, moves that narrow their financial flexibility.
Denver Loses Strength as a Destination
The Denver Nuggets were also linked with DeRozan. At the end of July, Shams Charania reported that the franchise was interested in acquiring his services.
However, that possibility seems to have faded after Denver reached an agreement for a one-year, $3.3 million deal with Lonnie Walker IV. Furthermore, the Nuggets are currently the only NBA team above the second salary apron, a circumstance that further complicates any potential addition.
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