DeMar DeRozan isn’t ready to sign an extension with the Chicago Bulls yet, according to Shams Charania of The Athletic.
The Bulls would like to bring back DeRozan, who is on an expiring deal. Chicago’s front office and DeRozan have discussed an extension, but the sides remain apart on years and salary. DeRozan also wants to see where the team goes before committing to a return.
Teams are probing the availability of Zach LaVine and there’s been increased openness from the Bulls and LaVine about exploring a trade. If LaVine is traded, DeRozan probably won’t sign an extension.
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
After the Bulls’ 124-104 season-opening loss to Oklahoma City, players — led by center Nikola Vucevic — expressed frustration with the Bulls’ offense. Chicago is 4-7 on the season after losing to the Milwaukee Bucks on November 13.
DeRozan is averaging 21.2 points, 3.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists this season while shooting 43.4% from the field, 32.0% from beyond the arc and 84.7% from the free-throw line.
The Bulls could trade DeRozan if they trade LaVine. Both All-Stars have been linked to the Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers and Miami Heat.
“Control what you can control,” DeRozan said during an interview with K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago. “This may sound cliché, but I’m big on being professional even in the toughest of times. It’s always easy to run away or find an excuse or blame somebody else or whatever. But sticking through something always teaches you a lesson.
“Some people demand trades or demand certain things and they still don’t get what they want. For me, I just wake up and try to be the best I can be that day and let it translate over.”
NBA NEWS & RUMORS: DeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls Updates
DeRozan has career averages of 21.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 4.0 assists with the Toronto Raptors, San Antonio Spurs and Bulls.
Want the latest NBA analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click Here. Follow NBA Analysis Network on Twitter and Facebook.
Interested in reading the latest storylines and analysis in the NFL? Check out our partner NFL Analysis Network.
