The 26-year-old hasn’t played his best basketball during the playoffs, but his work during the regular season would make him one of the most sought-after free agents if he decides to opt-out of his current deal.
Reports have already surfaced on the former first-round pick making the decision and it makes sense as it allows the star guard more opportunities to capitalize on his earning potential while in the prime of his career.
The former USC star averaged a career high 23.5 points per game this season, but he also contributes in other ways, averaging four assists and a steal each contest. With such numbers, he will get a max contract offer and his decision on where to play could change the landscape of the league for the next few years.
Toronto lacks depth in the front court and have relied on DeRozan and point guard Kyle Lowry to carry much of the load the past two years. Leaving the franchise that drafted him ninth overall in the 2009 NBA Draft, could drop this side out of the playoffs next season, especially with the trouble they have had signing big name free agents.
Rumors out of Los Angeles have the Lakers as one team that not only needs the shooting guard, but their future success could depend on him signing.
Being from Southern California is a big plus for the “purple and gold” and with Kobe Brant now retired, finding a new face of the franchise is necessary. The LA Lakers need a scorer to go along with the young talent they have on the roster and with big names like Kevin Durant likely not interested in moving to a franchise that is rebuild, DeRozan could be the player that finally turns this struggling franchise around.
