NBA insider K.C. Johnson from NBC Sports Chicago reports that the Chicago Bulls have extended a two-year contract offer to DeMar DeRozan. If he doesn’t accept the extension before free agency begins this summer, he’ll become an unrestricted free agent.
Sources indicate that the Bulls proposed a lucrative two-year deal, potentially worth up to $40 million per season, to DeRozan’s representative. However, DeRozan is reportedly aiming for a longer-term contract, though negotiations are ongoing.
During this season, DeRozan played 79 games for the Bulls, showcasing impressive stats with an average of 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists, along with solid shooting percentages.
Despite securing a victory against the Atlanta Hawks in the play-in game, the Bulls ultimately fell short against the Miami Heat, extending their playoff drought for two consecutive years.
Bulls’ executive vice president of basketball operations Artūras Karnišovas expressed mutual interest in retaining DeRozan, highlighting his contributions to the team’s development and positive impact on younger players.
DeRozan initially joined the Bulls in August 2021 through a sign-and-trade agreement with the San Antonio Spurs, signing a three-year, $85 million contract.
While several teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers, Miami Heat, and Philadelphia 76ers, expressed interest in acquiring DeRozan during the season, the Bulls weren’t actively seeking to trade him. However, if he becomes a free agent, he’s expected to attract considerable attention from potential suitors.
Throughout his career with the Toronto Raptors, Spurs, and Bulls, DeRozan has maintained solid averages and earned three All-NBA team selections.
With DeRozan in the lineup, the Bulls have posted a record of 117-112 and made a playoff appearance in 2022, although they were eliminated by the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round.
