DeMar DeRozan, one of the offseason's biggest catches in free agency, decided to test the air in the Windy City, moving to the Chicago Bulls in a sign-and-trade deal with the San Antonio Spurs.
Prior to DeRozan's decision, the L.A. Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers were rumored to be targeting the former All-Star's services. The Clippers, looking to match the noise made by their Staples Center co-tenant, had their representatives already driving towards DeRozan's house, until a phone call forced them to make a U-turn.
Via Yahoo Sports' Chris Haynes:
“The Clippers brass driving on their way to DeMar's house. Things got a little interesting with the Bulls and looked like it was going to get done. DeMars agent called the Clippers called out of courtesy and said not to waste each others time out of respect to you guys.”
DeMar DeRozan would have formed another Big 3 alongside Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. However, the allure of Chicago proved to be stronger.
The Bulls have assembled a formidable core featuring holdovers Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic plus new additions in DeRozan and Lonzo Ball. Chicago committed $170 million in total contracts to Ball and DeRozan, so the expectations are going to be sky-high.
The Clippers will have to look hard elsewhere, especially now that the free agency pool is beginning to dry up. Amid all these, L.A. still has to receive Kawhi Leonard's commitment. The former NBA Finals MVP declined his player option, but almost everyone expects him to remain with the Clippers in a restructured deal.
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