Los Angeles Lakers news: At this point, it’s looking more and more likely that DeMar DeRozan will be parting ways with the Chicago Bulls this summer. This does not necessarily mean that he’s joining the Lakers, though.
In fact, new reports seem to point to the notion that LA’s chase for the six-time All-Star is quickly losing steam.
Los Angeles Lakers Lagging Behind DeMar DeRozan Race?
The main issue for the Lakers right now is that their current cap room availability limits them. This is despite the fact that LeBron James is reportedly willing to take a significant pay cut in order to make room for a star like DeRozan.
Unfortunately for LA, it is now being reported that DeRozan has no intention of signing a mid-level exception deal, which at this point, is the only type of contract that remains within the Lakers’ budget. This is according to NBA insider Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report (h/t NBACentral on X, formerly Twitter):
“DeMar DeRozan has zero interest in taking the MLE for $13M,” per Haynes.
While DeRozan is reportedly willing to potentially give the Lakers a discount, the six-time All-Star isn’t going that low.
All hope is not lost, though. The Lakers can still bring in DeRozan via a sign-and-trade deal, but this entails a bit of cap maneuverability in order to make room for the 34-year-old’s desired salary range. This will require LA to shed off cash from their payroll heading into the upcoming season, which likely means having to part ways with D’Angelo Russell and the $18.7 million he is owed next season.
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