Portability is an often-discussed concept when it comes to NBA players. Sure, talent is the most important thing. Can a player co-exist with others? Does he fit into a wide range of team concepts?
Of course, portability often comes at a cost. Normally, the most portable players in the league are players who don’t create for themselves. We’re talking 3-and-D wings and defensive bigs. They can play with anybody, but they’re not leading your team either.
By contrast, DeMar DeRozan isn’t all that portable. He’s not a floor spacer, and he’s not a positive defender. On the other hand, he can create shots for himself and others at an elite rate.
If the Bulls make him available this summer, he’ll have suitors. Here are three teams that we think should take a look at him.
Los Angeles Clippers
Of course, the Clippers are already linked to a star offensive creator. Like DeRozan, he’s a Los Angeles native – and also like DeRozan, he’s not all that portable.
We’re talking about James Harden. To be sure, the Clippers’ interest makes sense. So do any reservations that the Clippers may have about Harden, He’s a ball-dominant superstar that seems to need to play on his own terms.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Los Angeles Clippers Updates
Of course, DeRozan could be described similarly. On the other hand, he provides some of the same strengths. DeRozan is a dynamic playmaker. Meanwhile, he should be easier to acquire – unlike the Sixers with Harden, the Bulls won’t likely hold out for a superstar package. Could another team take advantage of that?
Brooklyn Nets
With that said, nobody needs to tell the Nets about portability. They know all about it. The Brooklyn Nets have one of the most portable rosters in the NBA. This team is littered with quality supporting pieces.
On the other hand, the Nets point to the limitations of portability. Mikal Bridges can create his own shot. We can’t say the same for anyone else on this roster, short of the young Cam Thomas. The Nets need an offensive focal point above all else.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Brooklyn Nets Updates
Why not DeRozan? His inability to shoot will matter less on the Nets. They’re stacked with suitors. Meanwhile, Nic Claxton’s vertical spacing should make him a fitting pick-and-roll partner for DeRozan. With that said, perhaps DeRozan could join a team with a less pressing need for his services.
Miami Heat
The Miami Heat is the boldest suggestion here. DeRozan is not an immediate fit for hajis roster. Actually, on paper, he might be a poor fit.
Then again, on paper, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo is a tough sell as well. They’re both subpar floor spacers. Yet, the Heat just went to the Finals while featuring both. Their ability to otherwise surround their two stars with extremely portable players proved a successful formula last season.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls & Miami Heat Updates
Why not add a third star? In all likelihood, the Heat would want to stagger DeRozan and Butler. That’s fine. By having one of the dynamic playmakers on the floor at all times, the Heat should be able to thrive. After all, everyone else on this roster is portable.
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