The NBA trade deadline is just two days away and DeMar DeRozan — despite continuously denying reports of him wanting a trade — may be a player who would welcome a change of scenery.
In an article about what insiders are saying ahead of the deadline, Bleacher Report's Jake Fischer reported that DeRozan could have his sights set on rejoining the Eastern Conference, either now or after this season.
DeMar DeRozan is amid the final year of his current contract with the San Antonio Spurs and is earning himself some money with how he's performing this season. The four-time All-Star is quietly having a productive season with the Spurs by averaging 20.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and a career-high 7.4 assists per game.
While DeRozan seems to be getting comfortable in Gregg Popovich's system, it's uncertain if he is anxious to remain in San Antonio. With that in mind, Fischer named the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, and Orlando Magic as suitors for DeRozan.
If the Knicks were to acquire DeMar DeRozan, it would give them exactly what they need as they make a push for the playoffs. Getting a wing who can facilitate the offense could open things up for Julius Randle, RJ Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley.
As for the Bulls, they believe they are a piece away from being able to sneak into the playoffs. Chicago currently holds the No. 9 seed in the Eastern Conference at 19-23 but is still just 2.5 games behind the No. 4 seed. Fischer notes Otto Porter Jr. could be used as a possible trade chip to get DeRozan.
For the Magic, while they aren't positioned to win this season, they are confident in their future once Markelle Fultz and Jonathan Isaac return from injuries. Regardless of whether or not he's traded by Thursday's deadline, DeMar DeRozan may be paying close attention to teams in the Eastern Conference for when he hits free agency.
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