Chicago Bulls hope to bring DeMar DeRozan back after this season

Veteran star DeMar DeRozan has been a key part of the Chicago Bulls franchise over the last two seasons, and if the team's general manager Marc Eversley has his way, the Compton native will be around a lot more. Now playing in the final year of the three-year deal he signed in 2021, there's no telling where the midrange maestro will end up next. But the Bulls hope he'll stay with them and help the team continue to build its success in the years to come.

Terrific piece

Eversley has been vocal about his admiration of DeRozan, saying he sees him as an integral part of their present and future plans. Deebo arrived in Chicago in a sign-and-trade deal with the San Antonio Spurs before the 2021-2022 season started. He immediately hit the ground running, helping to lead the Bulls back to the NBA Playoffs before losing to the Milwaukee Bucks in the first round. DeRozan has been a major factor in the Bulls' last two campaigns with his veteran leadership and penchant for crunchtime scoring.

"DeMar's been great," Eversley said. "He's been terrific for this group, not only on the court but off the court. He's been a leader. I would love DeMar to be part of this program long term."

Discussions yet to take place

Eversley revealed there hadn't been any contract talks yet, although he expects to engage DeRozan and his representatives about that soon.

"Let's see how that plays out and what that looks like going forward. When those conversations take place, we'll speak about that more when that happens," Eversley added. "But we hope Deebo's back. He's been an integral part of this program's success. We hope he is here long term."

The Bulls' future trajectory hinges significantly on the decision regarding DeRozan. Keeping him on a long-term deal won't come at a low cost. Also, his presence implies that offensive possessions will predominantly be controlled by LaVine and DeRozan himself.

But if the Bulls decide to go a different route, it could open up some interesting possibilities for the team in free agency or via trades. As they weigh their options, it will be an important season ahead for Chicago's front office.