DeMar DeRozan is not a happy camper and for reasons that are understandable.
After Adrian Wojnarowski's patented “Woj Bomb” revealed that the Toronto Raptors will apparently ship their nine-year veteran to the San Antonio Spurs in exchange for the disgruntled Kawhi Leonard, the now former Raptor immediately posted an interesting Instagram story.
DeMar DeRozan was told one thing by the #Raptors management and now all signs point to him being delt to the #Spurs for a deal centered around Kawhi Leonard.
His IG story moments after the #WojBomb: pic.twitter.com/kPFw5jIegQ
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) July 18, 2018
DeRozan was referring to his recent talk in Las Vegas with Raptors executives expressly telling him that he will not be traded, only to later be the centerpiece of a blockbuster trade.
Despite the seemingly comforting assurances made by the Raptors towards their All-Star, the 28-year-old was actually shopped during the 2017 offseason with the team almost pulling the trigger on a deal for the Minnesota Timberwolves' Andrew Wiggins, perhaps hoping to get younger as well as drawing in some hometown connection with the Toronto native.
In addition, general manager Masai Ujiri apparently reiterated after their playoff sweep that he doesn't consider anyone “untouchable” as long as the right deal comes along. Certainly, a blockbuster move such as one that lands them a Finals MVP and two-time Defensive Player of the Year is an example of a deal that's worth it.
Whether it's the right move remains to be seen since it hinges on the 6-foot-8 forward staying with the team beyond the 2018-19 season. Whoever they give up (besides DeRozan) would also be a factor since possibly losing a young prospect like OG Anunoby and a first round pick for “nothing” (to steal a DeRozan term), could very well haunt the franchise.
Follow Us
Subscribe