DeMar DeRozan should forget about Chicago and chase a championship

DeMar DeRozan is an unrestricted free agent this summer. He has been expected to re-sign with the Chicago Bulls. However, he will undoubtedly have interest from around the league following an impressive 2023-24 season. 

In 79 regular season games, he averaged 24 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists on 48% shooting from the field.

Chicago recently acquired Josh Giddey from the Oklahoma City Thunder, and Alex Caruso is heading in the opposite direction. There is a significant crossover between Giddey and DeRozan's skills. 

Chicago's move indicates it wants to get younger and build for the future. Veteran NBA writer Marc Stein has reported that questions regarding DeRozan's potential return to the Bulls have started to float around the NBA. 

"Giddey and DeRozan, at first (and second) glance, look like a clunky fit together," Stein wrote. "One of the loudest questions bouncing around the league at the minute is thus: Will DeRozan be more available in free agency than expected now once the marketplace officially opens on June 30 at 6 PM ET? Likewise: Will DeRozan even want to return to the Bulls?"

DeRozan will turn 35 in August. The six-time All-Star has never won a championship. He is still capable of making a legitimate impact on a contending team and could thrive as a secondary or tertiary option. 

As such, now might be the time for him to begin ring chasing. Of course, that means sacrificing another big contract. Most contending teams don't have cap space, especially not for a 35-year-old. 

Chicago can't offer DeRozan the opportunity to compete for a championship. The Bulls are multiple years away from being positioned to challenge at the top of the Eastern Conference. DeRozan was professional throughout his tenure with the franchise despite its consistent struggles. He owes it nothing. 

If DeRozan is willing to sign a team-friendly deal to have a legitimate role on a contending team, there will be multiple offers on the table. He's paid his dues around the league. Now, he should be selfish and focus on cementing his legacy before it's too late.